The Department has a long history of integrating research investigation into the residency and fellowship education experience with the leadership of Dr. John D. Thompson
Under the leadership of Dr. John D. Thompson, Professor Emeritus and Chairman of the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics (1961-1986), research was identified as a key element in the development of the academic physician. This culture of inquiry has been expanded under the current leadership and residents now have the opportunity conduct prospective research investigation that will translate into an appreciation for scientific inquiry and lifelong learning.
Progressive Resident Research Experience: The goal of FRRD is to expose all residents to the research process, to allow residents the opportunity to identify a knowledge gap, develop a sound mechanism to investigate it, and disseminate findings within the Department and ultimately in a peer-reviewed publication. Given the time constraints of residency, regularly scheduled meetings between mentor and mentee are imperative. A progressive, mentored research experience is incorporated in the training curricula to fulfill several objectives:
1) Foster a culture of inquiry
2) Develop a critical mindset
3) Promote skills for life-long learning
4) Create development opportunities
5) Enhance career development
TIMELINE:
PGY-1 Year: The goal for PGY-1 year is to find a mentor (or mentorship team) and, with the mentor(s), begin to develop a research project idea.
PGY-2 Year: The resident will develop a formal research proposal and present this to the Department in the Fall during pre-Ground Rounds. They will then begin to work on the research project they outlined.
PGY-3 Year: The resident will work on the research project and complete it during the year then prepare a manuscript that describes their findings. They will present their final research results in the Spring at FRRD.
PGY-4 Year: The resident will work on publishing their completed manuscript in a peer-reviewed journal.