The University of Rochester has a long history of training physician-scientists, with numerous alumni contributing
to biomedical research and assuming leadership positions at academic medical centers. There is a continued
and growing need for physician-scientists, who serve a unique role in translating research discoveries to the
clinic and bringing clinical experiences to the laboratory bench. The main objective of the University of Rochester
MSTP (UR-MSTP) is to provide a unique and integrated environment for the rigorous and efficient training of
future physician-scientists. This is accomplished by immersion in basic science and clinical exposure through all
program years combined with a period of focused research leading to the PhD. Degrees are offered in a wide
range of areas that take advantage of the University’s highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment,
including basic biomedical sciences with emphasis on specific organ systems, Biomedical Engineering,
population-based degrees in Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Health Services Research, and College-based
programs such as Chemistry and Optics. As described in this application, our institutional environment is
comprised of outstanding faculty, resources and infrastructure, that provide cutting-edge research and clinical
training. UR-MSTP objectives are: 1) Provide an efficient and integrated training experience in rigorous research
and clinical activities that imbues trainees with skills to identify important biomedical research questions, translate
research findings into clinical practice, and develop productive careers combining research, clinical care,
education, and leadership. 2) Support and guide trainees through all phases of their training experience across
a broad range of disciplines, highlighting multidisciplinary approaches that will impact medically relevant research
and human health care. 3) Develop a community of physician-scientist trainees that encompasses principles of
diversity, equity, and respect, as well as research and clinical integrity, for the betterment of human health. 4)
Rigorously, comprehensively, and continuously evaluate the MSTP. 5) Recruit 8 new MSTP students each year
to maintain a cohort comprising 60 to 65 trainees, striving to complete both degrees in 8 years. The medical
school is fully committed to the MSTP, and is supporting new initiatives to enhance program evaluation, training,
and recruitment, including an MSTP Summer Scholars Undergraduate Research Program, resources for mentor
training, and a new effort to enhance trainee resilience. We have been successful in filling our slots with highly
motivated students who are passionate about biomedical research and successful in competing for individual
fellowships, publishing their work, and entering competitive, research-focused residency programs. Coupled with
the University of Rochester’s commitment to the MSTP, support from NIGMS will ensure that current and future
trainees develop the skills and insights to initiate and lead the translation from science to human health as
members of the Physician-Scientist Workforce.