Strategic tips to successfully undertake research: a comprehensive roadmap for medical trainees.

Journal: Postgraduate medical journal
Published Date:

Abstract

Engaging in research during medical training is crucial for fostering critical thinking, enhancing clinical skills, and deepening understanding of medical science. Despite its importance, the shortage of physician-scientists lingers with many trainees and junior doctors encountering challenges navigating the research process. Drawing on current literature, this article provides a comprehensive roadmap, categorising 12 actionable strategies into five themes, to help medical trainees overcome common obstacles and optimise their research experience. The strategies include early planning, research conduct and integrity, productivity and time management, collaboration and dissemination, and personal growth and development. By implementing these evidence-based recommendations, derived from current literature and expert insights, medical trainees can refine their research skills, produce high-quality outputs, and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community, ultimately enriching their medical training and future careers.

Authors

  • Isaac Oluwatobi Akefe
    CDU Menzies School of Medicine, Charles Darwin University, Ellengowan Drive, Darwin, NT 0909, Australia.
  • Victoria Aderonke Adegoke
    School of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
  • Elijah Akefe
    Faculty of Law, University of Abuja, PMB 117, Gwagwalada, Abuja 902101, Nigeria.