Introduction to the Physician Scientist Development Program (PSDP)

The Physician Scientist Development Program (PSDP) in the Department of Pediatrics is a post-graduate training program aligned with the ABP’s Accelerated Research Pathway (ARP), intended to produce clinically-trained scientists with interests ranging from basic to translational and clinically oriented research.

Program Overview

• The program is designed for qualified applicants who have completed combined MD-PhD degrees or an MD with equivalent research experience.
• As of AY25, the program has two fully-funded PSDP slots available per year.
• The PSDP NRMP Program code is C5.

PSDP Components

Residency & Fellowship Training

• As part of the application and interview process, candidates will be asked to indicate their intended subspecialty focus (ideally no more than two options) from the internal ACGME-approved Fellowship Programs.
• The program is committed to working closely with fellowship program directors to ensure an appropriate fellowship match.

Post-Doctoral Research

• Trainees are given great flexibility in their selection of laboratories and mentors for their post-doctoral research fellowship.
• Trainees may choose to pursue research within the Department of Pediatrics or take advantage of opportunities located throughout the Biological Sciences Division and the University.
• The University of Chicago is home to numerous world-class research centers, including:
  • The Ben May Department for Cancer Research
  • The University of Chicago Comprehensive Cancer Center
  • The Gwen Knapp Center for Lupus & Immunology Research
  • The University of Chicago Institute for Cardiovascular Research
  • The Institute for Biophysical Dynamics
  • The MacLean Center for Medical Ethics
  • The Regional Center of Excellence for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases
  • A Howard Hughes Medical Institute Research Center

Transition to Junior Faculty

• Trainees who apply for an external career development grant award in the final year of their fellowship will be given consideration for “bridge” funding to a faculty position in their respective subspecialty section.

PSDP Curriculum

• During the first two years of the program, trainees enter a formal mentorship program that encourages participation in journal club and laboratory meetings.
• Residents meet regularly with a senior physician scientist of their choice to explore career paths and potential areas of interest, including the identification of regular seminar series in areas of interest.
• Trainees within the PSDP are guaranteed stipend support for residency and fellowship training.
• Throughout the entire length of the 6-year program, trainees receive additional financial resources to support their educational needs.
• PSDP trainees must meet all Accelerated Research Pathway requirements.

Additional Funding Support

• PGY1 / PGY2: Trainees receive educational funding of $5,000/year to support the purchase of computers, software, journal subscriptions, and scientific conference registration.
• Clinical Fellowship: Trainees receive educational funding of $5,000/year to support the purchase of computers, software, journal subscriptions, and scientific conference registration.
• Research Fellowship Years: Trainees receive a $25,000/year supplement to their salary and a $5,000 stipend per year to support scientific conference attendance.

Application Process

• In addition to the ERAS application, PSDP candidates must submit a supplementary REDCap Application form by Friday, October 10th, 2025, and submit examples of their published work(s).
• PSDP applicants must interview on one of three designated dates, with the preferred date being Monday, November 17th, 2025, which includes a full residency interview day and a live (virtual) institutional PSDP informational session.
• Alternative dates are Tuesday, January 6th, and Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, which offer a modified interview day with the recording of the institutional session shared in advance.

University of Chicago Summary

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Overview:

The University of Chicago is a prestigious research university located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. It is known for its rigorous academic programs, emphasis on independent thinking, and commitment to intellectual freedom. The university boasts a diverse community of scholars and students who contribute to groundbreaking research and advancements in various fields.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university offers a vibrant campus experience with a diverse community, access to arts and culture, and a strong connection to the surrounding South Side neighborhood. Students can expect a challenging academic environment that fosters independent thinking and critical analysis.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Rigorous academic programs:

The university is renowned for its challenging and intellectually stimulating curriculum.

Emphasis on independent thinking:

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and engage in original research.

Intellectual freedom:

The university provides a supportive environment for faculty and students to pursue their research interests without limitations.

Field-defining research:

The university has a long history of groundbreaking research and discoveries that have shaped various fields.

Global impact:

The university is actively involved in addressing global challenges through research, initiatives, and programs across the world.

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Academic Programs:

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Other:

The university is deeply connected to its surrounding community and invests in the South Side through initiatives in health, education, economic growth, and the arts. It also emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.