Basic and translational neonatal neuroscience research: whither goest the future of physician-scientists?

Abstract

Objectives:

In light of declining numbers of physician-scientists, the goal of this project was to identify strategies to invigorate and attract new talent to clinical research in the field of pediatric neurosciences.

Design:

To develop a broad perspective, a program of direct questions was addressed to both US and non-US physicians at all stages of career development.

Results:

Respondents identified numerous promising avenues of research but also indicated obstacles to research progress at all stages of career development including medical students, resident physicians, junior medical faculty, mid-career faculty, and senior faculty. At each career stage, ideas were offered to attract resources for, build prestige for, and motivate commitment for participation in clinical research.

Conclusions:

Creative promotion of clinical research at all stages of medical education and career development offers great promise to expand current physician-scientist numbers, and thereby stimulate many exciting advances in medicine.