Perot Family Scholars Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)

“The MSTP at UTSW has been an exceptional place to train to become a physician scientist. The research environment is outstanding, with a strong emphasis not only on discovery, but also on developing rigorous and independent scientific thinking, ultimately shaping how I approach both science and medicine. What makes the program especially special is its close knit and supportive community. We are able to openly discuss ideas, receive thoughtful feedback, and benefit from mentorship by physician scientists with diverse clinical and research interests. On the clinical side, training at Parkland, Clements, and the VA encourages responsibility and integration into the care team, building confidence and preparing us well for the next stage of training. It is rare to find a program that excels in both scientific and clinical training while also meaningfully integrating the two, but the UTSW MSTP achieves this exceptionally well.”

“While physician-scientists are becoming increasingly rare, their unique ability to bridge bench and bedside and drive meaningful medical advances remains as valuable as ever. Supporting and training physician-scientists is truly central to the ethos of UT Southwestern. The world-class research community —demonstrated by the concentration of HHMI investigators and members of the National Academy of Sciences— is strengthened by a uniquely collaborative culture on campus. My own network of mentors at UTSW grew organically from informal conversations about my work that were met with genuine curiosity and thoughtful guidance. The discoveries I made during my Ph.D. were made possible in no small part by the culture of sharing preliminary data early and often. This exceptional research environment is matched by the equally outstanding clinical training at Clements University Hospital and Parkland Memorial Hospital. Parkland, in particular, holds a special place in my heart, as it offers an opportunity to deliver excellent care to uninsured and underinsured patient populations in a state-of-the-art facility.”

“UT Southwestern’s MSTP is distinguished by its exceptionally supportive leadership and truly remarkable breadth of research opportunities available. I’ve been able to grow so much as a scientist through access to outstanding research mentors and diverse research opportunities. Program leadership has been consistently supportive, approachable, and invested in my development at every stage of training. The strength of UT Southwestern’s clinical training has helped me feel prepared for my next steps into residency and beyond. Additionally, the MSTP community has provided me with lifelong friendships and support!”

“The Medical Scientist Training Program at UTSW provides an excellent environment for pursuing a career in both science and medicine. Beyond the rigorous and rewarding medical training and the depth and breadth of both basic and translational research, I have found a community that is highly collaborative and filled with individuals who are passionate about mentoring the next generation of physicians and scientists. With such help and the wealth of opportunities at UTSW to explore new interests, the last few years have been an exciting and enriching experience for me.”

“The UTSW MSTP has given me immense opportunities to be completely confident in my skills as a physician and a scientist. I am surrounded by passionate and supportive people throughout the program.”

“The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) at UT Southwestern offers incredible training for future physician scientists. Both clinical and research training at UTSW are unmatched, and the combination of the two creates a powerful way to pursue clinically relevant research. Not only is UT Southwestern an exciting place to learn, but the mentorship and support from faculty have been invaluable as I figure out my path to becoming a physician-scientist. The unique combination of clinical medicine and basic science research puts physician-scientists in a unique position to make clinically relevant scientific advances that move medicine forward. Though the training path is long, I can’t imagine a better goal to work towards. The MSTP at UT Southwestern is perfect for students who want excellent training in a rigorous yet supportive environment.”