Career and Life Planning Guidebook for Medical Residents

F I E L D N O T E S The most important attribute we want to see in an applicant for a resident faculty position, and that we look for in the application, is evidence of strong interest in teaching, particular teaching resident physicians and medical students. Academic teaching physicians generally aren’t paid as well as clinicians who exclusively do patient care, and academic positions usually require longer hours associated with faculty administrative duties. For those reasons an applicant needs to possess a real passion for education and teaching if they are going to enjoy, do well, and survive in academic medicine. Evidence of that in their CV, personal statement, and references from colleagues is highly desirable. Additionally, prior graduate medical education experience teaching medical students or residents is certainly helpful. This includes activities such as precepting student and resident providers in free clinics, their training clin- ics, or in the hospital. Seeing this prior experience not only indicates that they likely already have some degree of competence in education, but further demonstrates their passion for academic medicine. – Dr. John Manning, Family Medicine Residency Program, Baylor Scott and White Those Who Can, Teach: Teaching, Research, and Academic Opportunities For those of you hoping to be competitive based on your research and past experience, make sure that all relevant information is included. Graduates from large research institutions are at a distinct advantage because of their training. They often highlight their research skills immediately in the first section of their CV along with their clinical training. Astute researchers are well aware of the research requirements of the institution to which they’re applying.When submitting your CV for consideration include research that might be particularly valuable to the hiring department. Also include relevant lab and clinical experience, and use annotated entries that highlight research skills, lab experiences, clinical populations, or settings which might be advantageous in your application. Candidates looking to capitalize on their teaching experience or those who hope to land a position at an institution with an emphasis on teaching over research, should likewise, emphasize experiences and interests relevant to teaching and student interaction. Activities such as peer tutoring, didactic or bedside teaching, and pre-clinical course grading should be featured prominently if you are pursuing an academic career that is heavily focused on teaching. Applicants at institutions with a teaching mission should be prepared to demonstrate skills as researchers as well. Rarely are positions filled with individuals who possess only one skillset. Faculty at these institutions may also be required to fulfill more departmental committee obligations, work as undergraduate student advisors, provide specialized seminars, and provide education at community outreach. Know the intricacies of the role you are seeking before you throw your name into that ring. SECTION II: T MINUS TWO YEARS CAREER AND LIFE PLANNING GUIDEBOOK FOR MEDICAL RESIDENTS 186