Addressing Gaps in Pediatric Scientist Development: The Department Chair View of 2 AMSPDC-Sponsored Programs

Abstract

Pediatric physician-scientists are important members of the biomedical workforce who are instrumental in translating research advances into novel patient treatment strategies, yet their numbers have been declining over the past four decades. In order to increase the pipeline of pediatric physician-scientists, the Association of Medical School Pediatric Department Chairs (AMSPDC) leads the Frontiers in Science (FIS) and Pediatric Scientist Development Program (PSDP). These programs provide mentorship, networking, and funding opportunities for pediatric residents and fellows who are interested in pursuing research careers.

To assess perceptions of program accessibility and efficacy, FIS and PSDP leadership surveyed AMSPDC membership between November 2018 and April 2019; 66 active department chairs responded. The decline in pediatric physician-scientists was identified as a common concern, and responding chairs identified several individual and institutional barriers to the physician-scientist career pathway and to participation in FIS and PSDP. Common barriers to participation included: undefined career paths for physician-scientists, a limited number of FIS slots annually, a perception that these programs support primarily basic science rather than other types of research, and competing funding through institutional T32 and K12 programs.

To address these barriers, FIS and PSDP leadership will work with AMSPDC to explore ways to increase access to FIS, promote PSDP alumni mentoring of participating residents and fellows, and expand the scope of research supported by these programs. Assessments of FIS and PSDP will be ongoing, with the goal of improving program access in order to increase and diversify the pediatric physician-scientist workforce.