MD Program

Medical Scholars Program

This competitive, fully funded 12‑month fellowship pairs current medical students with faculty mentors to pursue independent biomedical investigations that match and encourage their research passions and professional goals.

Two VUSM researchers smile while collaborating on a research project in a lab.

Medical Scholars

Fellowships cover salary, benefits, and costs for professional development during the research year. Funding includes:

  • $30,000 stipend (subject to change) for living expenses
  • Health insurance, disability, and personal liability coverage
  • $1,500 conference allowance to support presentation and travel

Program Features

Professional Development

Collaborate across specialties and fields to gain research skills and fresh clinical insight as well as insight into potential career paths and roles.

Mentorship

Work one-on-one with expert mentors, while gaining clinical, design and analytical skills.

Research

Pursue biomedical research in any area, anywhere in the world—with full support and mentorship to match your passion and professional goals.

Community

Join a vibrant community of scholars – extending globally – who support one another in their quest to explore bold, personal research inquiries.

How to Apply

  1. You must be an MD student at Vanderbilt or Meharry, in good standing. MD/PhD students are not eligible, nor are students who already  hold a PhD.
  2. There are no citizenship requirements – VUSM and Meharry international MD students are welcome to apply.
  3. Submit an Intent-to-Apply form by Jan. 1
  4. Submit student, mentor and co-mentor applications, plus letters of recommendation by Feb. 1.
  5. Applications open Nov. 1 of each year and are reviewed by a committee via NIH-style scoring.

Questions? vms.research@vanderbilt.edu

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