Pediatric residents have many opportunities to participate in research as an elective or in the Pediatric Research Track through the ABP special research pathways. Pediatric faculty are enthusiastic about mentoring the next generation of physician scientists. Electives, rotations and special lectures offer options to pursue interests in multiple research methods—from basic science and clinical studies to health services and policy research.
A formal research requirement is not in place, but all residents are expected to develop an area of emphasis for their senior project, presenting an original clinical or scientific presentation on a clinical, research, advocacy or continuous quality improvement topic. An annual resident-fellow research day recognizes the excellent work of Department of Pediatrics trainees.
Research Track
Those who are interested may apply to the pediatric residency research track position (NRMP Match Program Code: 1187320C1). The position is open to a categorical pediatric resident who will participate in either the integrated research pathway or accelerated research pathway.
Integrated Research Pathway (IRP)
Three-year residency with 11 months of research. To participate in this program, the American Board of Pediatrics must approve the track within the initial nine months of the PGY-1 year.
Eligibility: This pathway is open to individuals with MD/PhD degrees, DO/PhD degrees or candidates who demonstrate the equivalent research experience and future research career commitment. Eligibility requirements for the categorical Indiana Pediatric Residency Program must be fulfilled.
Accelerated Research Pathway (ARP)
Two-year residency with four years of training in a pediatric subspecialty fellowship.
Eligibility: This pathway is open to individuals with MD/PhD degrees, DO/PhD degrees or candidates who demonstrate the equivalent research experience and future research career commitment. Eligibility requirements for the categorical Indiana Pediatric Residency Program must be fulfilled.
Research Education
Unique to IU School of Medicine is the Morris Green Physician Scientist Development Program, which was created to identify and support pediatric residents and fellows who want to develop careers as pediatric researchers, physician-scientists and future academic leaders. The program provides protected research time, a structured research curriculum, mentorship and research project funding.
Research Facilities
The internationally recognized Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research investigates the causes and mechanisms of pediatric disease and develops innovative approaches for diagnosis and treatment. Education of the next generation of basic and translational scientists is one of the core missions of the Wells Center, with faculty mentoring medical students and young physicians in grant writing, research planning, manuscript writing and presentation delivery.
