Challenges for trainee physician-scientists during their PhD candidature: a cross-sectional study.
Intern Med J
; 54(7): 1190-1196, 2024 Jul.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38682385
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
Physician-scientists are important drivers of research, in both knowledge acquisition and research translation. In Australia, many newly qualified physicians and advanced physician trainees enrol in PhD studies, with a view to training as physician-scientists. However, data on perceived challenges and ways to support them are limited.METHODS:
This single-centre study surveyed trainee physician-scientists undertaking PhD studies within the Monash University Department of Medicine in 2020. Following discussions with PhD students and a qualitative written questionnaire, trainee physician-scientists were invited to complete a quantitative survey that aimed to identify current and future career challenges and determine the type of enrichment and support mechanisms they value most and would most likely use.RESULTS:
From 45 eligible participants, 25 responses were received (76% female). Participants identified multiple substantial challenges (median of 6) during their candidature relating to their project, changes in roles and their personal lives. They also envisaged future challenges post-PhD in establishing themselves as an independent investigator, further changes in their identity and their personal lives. Of potential support mechanisms during their candidature, a mentoring program was the most favoured, with an online discussion forum being the least popular.CONCLUSIONS:
Trainee physician-scientists report multiple challenges during their PhD candidature and envisage significant challenges in establishing their research independence after PhD completion. They valued several potential support mechanisms, particularly a mentoring program. Australian universities and their associated academic health services should consider establishing programs to support trainee physician-scientists.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Pesquisadores
Limite:
Adult
/
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
País/Região como assunto:
Oceania
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Intern Med J
Assunto da revista:
MEDICINA INTERNA
Ano de publicação:
2024
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Austrália