Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway

The University of Virginia is proud to be one of the pilot institutions for the Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway (SSTP). This innovative pathway is designed for applicants who have already committed to pursuing careers as independent surgeon-scientists. Through exceptional clinical training, longitudinal research integration, structured mentorship, and individualized career development, the SSTP prepares future leaders who will advance surgery through scientific discovery and innovation.

The Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway is designed for applicants who envision research as a major component of their future academic career and aspire to:

• Become independent surgeon-scientists
• Lead innovative laboratory, translational, clinical, or data science research programs
• Obtain NIH or other extramural research funding
• Translate scientific discoveries into improved patient care
• Become future leaders in academic surgery through discovery, innovation, and scholarship

Residents in the Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway participate fully in UVA Surgery’s Research & Academic Development curriculum alongside all General Surgery residents. The SSTP is not a separate research curriculum; rather, it provides additional longitudinal mentorship and career development specifically for residents pursuing careers as independent surgeon-scientists.

• Separate NRMP Match Track for applicants committed to careers as surgeon-scientists.
• Early identification of research interests and development of an individualized academic career plan beginning during intern year.
• Structured mentorship through a multidisciplinary mentoring team composed of surgeon-scientists and collaborators across the University.
• Longitudinal research integration throughout residency, including before, during, and after dedicated research years.
• Preparation for independent funding, including mentorship for NIH F32 and K-series awards while building the foundation for future R-level funding.
• Career development through structured mentoring, networking, national leadership opportunities, and participation in the broader Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway community.

Applicants interested in the Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway apply through a separate NRMP match track designated for the Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway.