Beginning in July 2020, the Departments of Radiation Oncology and Radiology offered the new Duke R38 Research Pathway for residents committed to a career as a physician investigator. This NIH-funded, ABR-approved opportunity incorporates additional training and funding for at least 12 months protected time for research sponsored via an NCI R38 Stimulating Access to Research in Residency (StARR) grant.
Radiation oncology residents from both the traditional and research scholar tracks are invited to apply and participate in this program. Residents in this pathway will have a primary research mentor and a scholarship oversight committee that will meet at least twice per year to help residents create an individualized career development plan.
Eligibility and selection process
Residents who are committed to a career as a physician-investigator in academic medicine are eligible to apply for the R38 Pathway in Fall PGY3 year. Residents with commitment to either laboratory-based basic science research or clinical research are eligible to apply. Interviews will be scheduled and carried out with Scott Floyd, MD, PhD, Residency Associate Program Director, and other members of the selection committee who will make a decision about appointment to the R38 pathway with Dr. Salama’s approval. Up to a total of two residents in good clinical standing will be offered to embark on the R38 pathway at the beginning of their PGY4 year.
Selected residents appointed to the R38 research pathway will establish a track record of scholarly activities, including:
- Submission of an application for an external individual career development award
- Participation in scientific meetings
- Submission of research manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals
Benefits of the program include:
- 12-24 months of protected time for research.
- An opportunity to apply for a technician or research assistant to maintain research productivity during the blocks of clinical residency training
- Increased attractiveness for Duke School of Medicine subspecialty fellowship programs
- Funds to support conference travel and research needs
- Eligibility to apply for a new NIH early career award (K38 Stimulating Access to Research in Residency Transition Scholar)
Learn more about Duke Stimulating Access to Research in Residency (StARR) R38 Programs
