The need for the physician-scientist to develop broad skill sets to successfully transition into an independent, research-based academic faculty position has led to a diverse array of postgraduate training programs in Pediatrics. While some trainees acquire scientific skills during graduate medical education (MSTP; MD/PhD degree), most require additional, post-graduate training to successfully integrate clinical and scientific expertise into an academic program. This level of success is reliant upon being able to effectively balance the development of a program that integrates impactful science with the delivery of high-quality patient care. The need for this complex level of training has led to development models that can be generally categorized as physician-scientist training programs (PSTP) or research-in-residency (RiR) programs.
The PSTP model most commonly integrates pediatric residency and subspecialty fellowship training over a six-year period.
The RiR model allows categorical residents in traditional three-year training programs to simultaneously engage in activities from a coexisting PSTP or a unique research curriculum dedicated to residents training in pediatrics.
Umbrella programs are broad initiatives seeking to support institutional development of a culture and infrastructure that promotes growth and diversity of the physician-scientist workforce at all levels of education and training.