Research
Many students ask, “Do I need to do research as an undergraduate to be competitive for any of the medical schools (medical, dental, veterinary)?”
The answer is, “No.” However, completion of a piece of independent research is a sign of intellectual curiosity. In addition, hypothesis based research allows you to develop your critical thinking skills and working as a member of a team. A research experience frequently results in a paper, abstract or poster in which you have to effectively communicate your research results. A research experience is a great way to develop these intellectual and communcation skills.
If you have an interest in academic medicine (i.e., being a faculty member at a medical school) you’ll be expected to have research experience in your field of interest. Moreover, if you think you might be interested in a medical school where there are opportunities for doing research, you may want to become involved in research as an undergraduate to help determine if this is an important aspect for you to consider in your selection of medical schools and evaluation of medical school curricula.
At Duke University, the opportunities for research independent study are many but will appropriately require that you take some initiative. If you have an interest in research, you should plan your curriculum to accommodate at least two semesters or a semester and a summer of independent study during your junior or senior years. Discuss this option with your faculty advisor and/or prehealth advisor. See the undergraduate program on the biology website for information on how to arrange and register for an independent study through the Biology Department. Alternatively or in addition, you may want to seek volunteer, academic, or paid research opportunities during the summers.
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