Medical students at Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons were recognized for their research accomplishments during two annual events, Student Research Day and the MD/MS Research Symposium, according to an April 15 announcement.
These events highlight the role of medical student research in advancing new discoveries and improving patient care. Anil Lalwani, associate dean for student research at VP&S and professor and vice chair for research in the Department of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery, said, “Physicians are instrumental in making new medical discoveries and translating findings into improvements for patients. Participation in research during medical school helps students develop the skills they’ll need to perform these roles as physicians, scientists, and educators.”
All VP&S medical students are required to complete a scholarly project that may focus on basic or translational science, clinical research, global health topics, social medicine, or medical education. About one quarter of students pause their studies for a year to focus on independent investigations. The college also offers joint degree programs including MD/MS in biomedical sciences.
On March 27, fifteen members of the Class of 2026 presented their master’s thesis work during the MD/MS Research Symposium. At Student Research Day on April 1, sixty students shared their findings through posters and discussions with peers and faculty. Eleven were selected by faculty judges to receive awards recognizing outstanding projects.
The event also included recognition for mentorship; Nathalie Moise received the Scholarly Projects Program Faculty Mentor of the Year Award from Utpal Pajvani.
Lalwani said about this year’s participants: “The quality of research showcased by VP&S medical school students mirrors their excellence, alongside the remarkable scientific research led by our faculty and their dedication to mentoring.”
