Medical students begin summer research

Robert Barrington, Ph.D., speaks to medical students

during the summer research program orientation.

The Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine is celebrating 50 years of educating and empowering medical students through our growing research program. Last week, 40 rising second-year medical students and five incoming first-year medical students attended orientation and started the 50th Annual Medical Student Summer Research Program.

The eight-week program pairs medical students with faculty mentors, and students devote 30 to 40 hours a week to a research project. The summer experience includes hands-on research related to basic science and/or clinical medicine, and a seminar program that focuses on various scientific and clinical topics. Through the program, students develop an appreciation of how research contributes to the knowledge and practice of medicine.

The program will culminate with student presentations on 2023 Medical Student Summer Research Day, scheduled for Friday, July 21. Russell Terry, M.D., assistant professor of urology at the University of Florida College of Medicine, will deliver the keynote lecture.

During orientation, Robert Barrington, Ph.D., chair of the Medical Student Summer Research Program and associate professor of microbiology and immunology, presented on responsible conduct in research and bioethics. He also introduced the M.D. with Research Honors Program, available to medical students who desire to conduct in-depth research in an area of the health sciences. 

Karen Braswell, supervisor for clinical education/student affairs, discussed USA Health facilities and Cerner access. Students also had a chance to win Whiddon College of Medicine T-shirts.

Learn more about the Medical Student Summer Research Program.