program overview
Welcome to the MD-PhD Training Program!
In 2007, the UF MD-PhD training program was established to prepare the next generation of physician scientists for impactful careers which integrate biomedical science and clinical medicine. The current program is a collaboration between UF’s College of Medicine and the UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute. This program is fully-funded, inclusive of all health majors and disciplines and integrates clinical research with practical training opportunities within UF’s Health Science Center (HSC).
History
Prior to 1986, there was no formal MD-PhD Training Program at the University of Florida (UF). The program initially consisted of an accommodation of MD students who wanted to pursue PhD training. It remained small until 2007, when new College of Medicine leadership made a commitment to the funding of tuition and stipends. The number of scholars matriculating since 2007 has been 4-6 per year, with a recent increase to 8 new scholars per year under the leadership of our current directorate.
Framework
The UF MD-PhD Training Program is based on eight core concepts that form a Community of Practice approach to education:
Clinical & Translational Science
This program emphasizes discovery science and its application to address important issues in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human disease.
Breadth of Training
Scholars will have interdisciplinary opportunities with mentorship support for training in a broad spectrum of disciplines. Including basic biomedical, behavioral, community, population, and data sciences.
Integration of Clinical and Translational Research Training
Each phase of MD-PhD training will include components of both research and clinical medicine with emphasis on integration of these elements throughout the scholar’s education.
Transition Between Phases of Training
Program leadership will provide assistance during the major transition periods between MD and PhD programs and prepare scholars for postgraduate medical training.
Trainee Involvement
Scholars will participate in program planning, implementation and evaluation. Specifically, the scholar council operates several elements of the programs, provides input and coordinates new or proposed initiatives, and occupies seats at directorate meetings and functions.
Team Science
Scholar training will involve acquisition of knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to team science.
Career Preparation
Scholars will be prepared for a broad range of biomedical science career options. This includes academic careers, private industry, entrepreneurship, government, and community engagement/advocacy.
Evidence-based Educational Methods
This program will rely on evidence-based educational methods and technologies wherever possible, and contribute evidence for new training approaches.
UF Campus Partners
college of medicine
The UF COM is comprised of award-winning faculty and research teams spanning 8 affiliated research institutes and 28 research centers.
clinical and translational science institute
Integration with the UF CTSI makes available extensive facilities, personnel, and support for MD-PHD scholars.
Health Science Center
The UF HSC, with its six health science colleges, provides excellent opportunities for interdisciplinary training through its large pool of potential mentors.
