Student Research and Scholarly Activity Policy

As you embark on your journey through medical school, we would like to emphasize the importance of research in your medical education, its impact on your future patients and its critical role in advancing our understanding of health, disease, and treatment options.

Engaging in research will provide you with a deeper understanding of the scientific process and evidence-based medicine and help you to evaluate new findings and their relevance to your patients. By developing a strong foundation in research, you can better appraise the quality of studies you read and effectively incorporate better treatments options for your patients.

Participating in research projects during your medical education will help you develop essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills. These abilities are not only vital for interpreting research findings but also for diagnosing and treating patients in your clinical practice. Research experience will also enhance your communication skills, as you will need to convey complex information to your colleagues, patients, and the broader scientific community.

Research will expose you to a diverse range of medical disciplines, fostering a spirit of collaboration and interdisciplinary understanding. This will enable you to appreciate the interconnectedness of various medical specialties and understand how they can work together to provide optimal patient care. This collaborative mindset is particularly important in the era of personalized / precision medicine, where tailoring treatments to individual patients requires a deep understanding of multiple disciplines.

Research can open doors for career development and opportunities. Many medical specialties highly value research experience, and it can be a deciding factor in residency and fellowship applications, especially when all other factors are considered equal. Additionally, research can lead to academic appointments, leadership positions within professional organizations, and opportunities to influence patient care around the world.

Finally, and most importantly, your engagement in research will ultimately benefit your future patients. By staying at the forefront of medical knowledge and incorporating evidence-based practices into your clinical decision-making, you will be providing the best possible care for your patients. This commitment to research and continuous learning will also serve as a positive example for your colleagues and the next generation of healthcare professionals.

We encourage you to seize the opportunities for research that are available during your medical education and to continue fostering a lifelong passion for discovery and learning.

This policy was reviewed and revised in March 2024. For assistance with policies and procedures, please contact Alexa Levine (adlevine@noordacom.org).