The Medical Scholars Program is a one year-in-depth research experience available to Vanderbilt Medical students. The goal of the program is to foster an interest in research among medical students that may eventually lead to the pursuit of a career in academic medicine.
Specifically, the Medical Scholars Program seeks to identify students who are interested in biomedical research (clinical, basic, health services, public health, outcomes, etc.), place them in an appropriate research environment, allow them access to a group of peers and scientists who share common research interests, and support them with a stipend.
The duration of the program for each student is 12 months consecutively, and thus adds an additional year to the traditional medical school curriculum. This can occur after the first, second, third or fourth year. Selection of applicants for the program is based on the following criteria: the medical student is in good standing at the medical school; the applicant has a recognized commitment to pursue research; the applicant has identified an appropriate research project; and the applicant has identified a mentor who will foster and support the applicant's research project. No prior research experience is required.