Leaders in Biomedical Research Training at the University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota's Twin Cities campus is home to dynamic research in basic and clinical sciences, biomedical engineering, public health, and health care policy that attracts a diverse group of faculty and researchers from around the world. Faculty are nationally recognized for educational leadership, mentorship, and support in scholarship and research. The Medical School is dedicated to providing a high-quality education for trainees of all backgrounds.

For applicants committed to rigorous research training in clinical and basic investigation, the Physician-Scientist Training Program (PSTP) offers a continuous training experience, from internship through fellowship.

The program is individualized to match personal career plans, including opportunities to obtain an advanced degree (MPH, MS, or PhD) in one of the University's outstanding graduate programs in the Medical School, College of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, or School of Public Health. The University's collaborative approach to research, exemplified by the interdisciplinary Biomedical Discovery District, provides a broad range opportunities in Medical School research centers (e.g., Clinical & Translational Science Institute, Lillehei Heart Center, Masonic Cancer Center et al.)

The PSTP curriculum is based on and meets requirements of the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Research Pathway.

HOW TO APPLY

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants apply to both the Internal Medicine categorical program and Physician-Scientist Training Program Pathway through ERAS. Candidates are initially reviewed by Internal Medicine, and asked for their research and fellowship interests by the PSTP coordinator. Candidates are then reviewed by PSTP and the relevant fellowship program directors and may be invited to a special two-day interview that includes categorical interviews plus meetings with PSTP and fellowship directors, research faculty, and current trainees. All interviews and meetings are virtual.

Interviews will begin after November 1; specific dates will depend on the fellowship desired and will be arranged through the PSTP Administrator.

The application deadline is December 15.

Current University of Minnesota Internal Medicine interns are also welcome to apply to PSTP and should contact the PSTP Administrator to formally express interest.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR ERAS

REQUIREMENTS

In addition to the standard Residency requirements listed below; candidates will be asked to submit a brief survey to indicate their research and fellowship interests.

  • Dean’s Letter
  • 3 Letters of Recommendation
  • Medical School transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • USMLE Step 1, and Step 2 if available (no minimum score required)
  • ECFMG Certificate, if applicable

The Medical School seeks to attain a diverse learning environment through the recruitment of students who are underrepresented in medicine and may also be underrepresented in Minnesota.

Please contact the PSTP Administrator for more information.

PROGRAM CONTENT

COMBINED RESIDENCY AND FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

PSTP training is individualized to match personal career plans. The University's collaborative approach to research, exemplified by the interdisciplinary Biomedical Discovery District, provides a broad variety of scientific opportunities in advanced labs both within and outside of the Medical School.

The University's Internal Medicine residency program provides training within a diverse patient population across three dedicated teaching hospitals. PSTP trainees are encouraged to short-track clinical training, completing residency in two years through effective Internal Medicine scheduling and support.

After short-track (2-year) or standard (3-year) residency, fellowship combining in-depth research and clinical training is available in any of these subspecialties:

  • Cardiovascular Diseases
  • Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism
  • Gastroenterology
  • Hematology, Medical Oncology & Transplantation
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pulmonary & Critical Care
  • Nephrology & Hypertension
  • Rheumatology

Many fellowships support training-grant associated career development programs.

An advanced degree may be obtained in one of the University's outstanding graduate programs in the Medical School, College of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, or School of Public Health

ELIGIBILITY

ELIGIBILITY

PSTP is open to applicants to the University of Minnesota's Internal Medicine residency program, or current residents in their first year of training. Successful candidates have a demonstrated desire to pursue an investigative career. Applicants may already have an advanced research degree (MS, MPH, PhD), or substantive research experience as an undergraduate or medical student.

The Medical School seeks to attain a diverse learning environment through the recruitment of students who are underrepresented in medicine and may also be underrepresented in Minnesota.

Candidates approved by residency, PSTP and intended subspecialty fellowship program directors are invited to two-day combined residency/fellowship interviews.

Expand all

CURRICULUM

The curriculum is structured to provide support for PSTP trainees beginning in residency. In fellowship, grant-writing seminars, responsible conduct of research courses and didactics are available. PSTP, residency, and fellowship mentors provide guidance throughout training. Educational supplements encourage trainee participation in scientific meetings. PSTP dinners build community and offer insights from distinguished physician-scientists.

Community

The University of Minnesota campus nestles on the Mississippi River between the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Arts, culture, professional sports, and culinary experiences abound in this metro area of 3 million residents. Transit options are plentiful, from light rail to extensive bike trails maintained year-round. An abundance of natural resources, including more than 20 metro lakes, provide a rich array of recreational activities that vary through Minnesota's four seasons. The Twin Cities combine big-city amenities and diversity with the friendliness of small town.

Core Training Requirements

PSTP meets ABIM Research Pathway guidelines. Trainees may choose to pursue either the Internal Medicine Research Pathway or, for those with interests in Internal Medicine fellowships, the Subspecialty Research Pathway.

Internal Medicine Research Pathway

  • Resident Training: Short track (24 months) or standard (36 month) residency
  • Intensive Research Training: 36 months
  • Continuity Clinic: one half-day per week

Total training: five to six years leading to eligibility to sit for the IM certification exam.

Subspecialty Research Pathway

  • Resident Training: 24 months, including 20 months of direct patient care
  • Fellowship Clinical Training: 12 to 24 months, depending on specialty
  • Intensive Research Training: 36 months
  • Continuity Clinic: one half-day per week

Total training: six to eight years leading to eligibility to sit for IM and specialty certification exams.