Message from the Director

The University of Minnesota Medical Scientist Training Program (MD/PhD) is dedicated to training a diverse group of future leaders in academic medicine who will combine clinical medicine with the discovery of new knowledge through research.

Our integrated training program has been supported since 1988 by a Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) grant (T32 GM008244) from the National Institutes of Health. The University of Minnesota is one of the largest public research universities in the country and one of only a few university campuses with a Medical School and five other health professional schools. The Medical School provides medical education that encompasses everything from health care delivery innovations to state-of-the-art medical technologies, as well as comprehensive clinical training at sites throughout the Twin Cities.

We have several foundational pillars that guide our program. We provide an integrated training program that is flexible and allows for individualization to meet the unique needs of each student. Students in our program have access to an extraordinary diversity of PhD research opportunities. Our commitment to academic, professional and personal support and mentorship throughout all phases of MD/PhD training enhances your career success. We have an outstanding cadre of collaborative research and clinical mentors, and a cohesive and diverse community of outstanding students. Our focus on community building maximizes individual and collective success, and well being. Finally, our MSTP has a sustained commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion as a necessary foundation for excellence. Our program works tirelessly to provide an inclusive and welcoming climate, and is committed to combating systemic racism and injustice.

Successful pursuit of the MD/PhD requires intellect, and an enduring passion for science and medicine. The long-term return on your commitment is unlimited. Your training will place you at the forefront of scientific research and the practice of medicine. We invite your application to enter an exciting and substantive career as a scientist, physician and leader.

Yoji Shimizu, Ph.D.
Director
shimi002@umn.edu