The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) was developed by the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) to support future physician-scientists development financially. This program encourages students with outstanding credentials and potential to dedicate themselves to biomedical research and academic medicine careers.
The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) combines the MD and Ph.D. elements into a rigorous training program for future physician-scientists. Combining medical training with research rotations, the program is ideal for careers combining research and patient care, most often at academic medical centers and government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms.
MSTP students at Washington University are encouraged to direct their own goals and growth, enjoy a strong support network, and access mentors engaged in careers across the continuum of patient care and research.
Objectives: To prepare individuals for careers in academic medicine and biotechnology. Students complete Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Philosophy degrees with research in a medically relevant field.
Length of Program: Students complete Phase 1 of the Gateway MD curriculum, then the Ph.D. thesis, then Phases 2 & 3 of the Gateway MD curriculum. The program may be completed in as little as 6 years, though 7 or 8 years is the norm.
Additional Resources:
A discussion about Medical Scientist Training Programs
MSTP Executive Director Brian Sullivan featured in All Access: Med School Admission Podcast.
Why Consider a Career as a Physician Scientist?
Kory J Lavine, MD, Ph.D., is a tenured professor of medicine in the center of Cardiovascular Research, Director of the Cardiovascular precision medicine research initiative, and a 2008 Washington University MSTP alum.