medical school phd vs md

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M.D. vs. PhD. Degrees: What Are the Differences? 

Cait Williams is a Content Writer at Scholarships360. Cait recently graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Journalism and Strategic Communications. During her time at OU, was active in the outdoor recreation community.

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Chances are, when you hear PhD and MD, you at least know that there is a difference between them. Since both are the titles of doctors, there’s still a lot of ambiguity as to what those specific differences are. In this article, we will look at how MDs and PhDs differ from one another and which one might be a better fit for you. Let’s jump in!  

Doctor of Medicine (MD)  

We’ll start by taking a separate look at MDs. An MD is a medical doctor. Their primary job is to work with patients in a variety of settings such as hospitals, clinics, and a variety of other places where having medical staff is necessary. 

School  

In order to become an MD, students must complete their undergraduate degree and then attend a four year medical school. Medical School is then followed by a residency, where a new doctor completes training under a senior physician. From start to finish, becoming a doctor takes around 8-12 years to finish undergrad, medical school, and residency.  

Area of study  

As a medical doctor, you will generally choose one area of medicine that you would like to focus on. Specialties can be based on a certain part of the body, such as cardiology, podiatry, or neurology. Aspiring medical doctors can also specialize in working with a select group of people, such as geriatrics or pediatrics, or finally, you can specialize in researching things like oncology. The possibilities are plentiful for MDs! 

Where they work  

Where you work will depend on what you choose to specialize in. Again, this could be in a hospital, a smaller clinic, or even across the globe with various organizations that work to provide medical care to underserved populations. Medical expertise is needed in many capacities, meaning that there is never a shortage of places that a medical degree could take you! 

A word about DOs  

Before we move on to PhDs, we have one more thing to clear up that you might have questions about. In addition to MDs, there is also another type of doctor called a DO, or a doctor of osteopathic medicine . DOs perform largely all the same functions as MDs, but with a more holistic approach. They attend undergrad just like MDs and then attend a four year DO program that is structured very similarly to a regular medical school.  

The only difference between these two is where they receive their medical school training and how they approach studying medicine and treating patients. If you are thinking about becoming a medical doctor, you should take some time to explore DOs and what they do!  

Doctorate of philosophy (PhD)  

Okay, now onto PhDs! A doctorate of philosophy, known also as a PhD , doesn’t actually have anything to do with philosophy in most cases. A PhD can be completed in pretty much any field and is the highest level of education that one can receive.  

In order to complete your PhD, you will need to first complete your undergrad, then a master’s program, and finally apply to PhD programs. Not all PhD programs require that you finish your masters. There are some schools that offer programs that allow you to complete both your masters and your doctorate at the same time.  

Generally, schooling for your PhD takes anywhere from four to eight years to complete. The first year or two of your PhD is spent on coursework, while the remaining years are spent doing research and completing your dissertation.  

There are endless areas of study that offer PhD programs. You can study everything from physical therapy, business management and psychology to health administration, engineering, social work, and so much more. The gist is pretty much that if you can think of a field of study, you can earn your PhD in it!  

Based on the examples of fields you can study, it’s safe to say that what you study will determine where you decide to work. PhD holders are highly educated people, meaning that finding a job when you hold a PhD in your field will look pretty good to most employers.  

Common places where you find a high concentration of PhDs are in hospitals, corporate offices, college campuses, and other educational institutions. Remember, though, that’s not a full list of where you could work–the list of places you could work is endless! 

Tuition and Costs  

It’s true, pursuing either one of these degrees is not the cheapest thing, but don’t let numbers scare you off! If anything in this article sounds like it is right for you, explore it thoroughly. There are lots of ways that you can pay for your education, including scholarships, organizations, and programs out there that want to help you do it!

Okay, so for some real talk, the price of either of these degrees can vary a lot. Medical school will generally cost between $45,000 – $65,000 a year, while PhD programs cost on average about $30,000 a year. But, again, this does not mean you have to be able to pay these costs out of pocket. There are a lot of programs for PhDs that work with you to help you pay for some of the costs. There are even some fully funded PhD programs !

Similarly, there are tons of medical scholarships and even tuition free medical schools that you can apply to help offset the costs of a medical degree. There are also options for student loans that you can take out as well. The point is, there are tons of ways to find your education. If a degree like this is right for you, it is possible to achieve with proper planning and determination.

Related: Top scholarships for graduate students

Shadowing  

Before jumping all the way in with either of these degrees, shadowing is a great tool that can help you explore your intended field or job. It’s highly encouraged that students who want to attend medical school shadow at least a few different MDs and DOs prior to applying to medical school.  

But the benefits of shadowing are not just for the medical world. You can ask to shadow just about anyone . Maybe you’d like to shadow a professor who you had during undergrad, a social worker, or someone you know of who works in business. There are no rules about who you can and can’t shadow, you simply have to ask and go from there!  

What is right for you  

Below are some basic questions to help you get your mind started thinking about whether an MD or PhD is right for you. The first set of questions pertains more to MD or DO degrees.  

If you’re thinking about an MD or DO degree…  

Questions to consider.

• Do you like working with people and helping them during difficult times?  
• Do you love studying biological sciences ?  
• Does working in a hospital or clinic sound like an environment you would enjoy? 

If you’re thinking about a PhD…  

• Is there a specific area or field you would like to study? 
• Do you have a specific job in mind that you would like, and does it require a PhD? 

The answers to these questions won’t instantly help you decide, but they should help you think a little deeper about these degrees. 

Key Takeaways

• Both MDs and PhD holders are highly educated in their field of study, holding the highest degrees that you can earn 
• The only way to become a practicing MD is to first obtain your bachelor’s degree, then attended a four year accredited medical school, and then successfully complete all the proper exams to practice medicine 
• To earn a PhD, you do not have to attend medical school, but you will need to attend a PhD program, complete your undergrad, and usually complete your master’s degree before doing so 
• There are lots of ways to fund both a PhD and an MD, including scholarships, grants, loans, and partially and fully funded programs for each 

Frequently asked questions about the differences between MD and PhDs  

Is a phd higher than an md, who gets paid more an md or a phd, is a phd harder than an md, scholarships360 recommended.

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MD PhD vs MD: Which is best for you?

If you find yourself struggling between pursuing an MD PhD vs MD degree, you've come to the right place. In this blog, we'll explore the similarities and differences between medical doctors and physician-scientists to help you determine how to choose the pathway that is best suited for you.

>> Want us to help you get accepted? Schedule a free strategy call here . <<

Article Contents 7 min read

Md phd vs md: education.

While those with MD PhD and MD degrees are both medical doctors, MD PhD graduates also possess a PhD and are therefore known as physician-scientists or medical scientists. Obtaining this extra degree requires a different program structure and length compared to MD programs. MD PhD programs are generally 7-8 years in length and require attendance at both medical and graduate school. MD programs, on the other hand, will be completed in four years, half the time it will take MD PhD students. While both programs are classroom-based during the first two years, MD PhD students will move on to graduate school to complete their PhD thesis for between 3-4 years. They will then return to medical school for a year or two completing clinical rotations. Both MD PhD and MD graduates will complete their residency training for between 3-7 years before being licensed to practice medicine.

MD PhD vs MD: Application and Tuition

Whether you're interested in an MD PhD or an MD program, the application process is similar. You'll apply to most programs through AMCAS where you'll complete all sections of the application including the AMCAS work and activities section and you'll upload your coursework, letters of evaluation, and medical school personal statement . Make sure to find out if the schools of your choice require you to take CASPer test. If so, start practicing using CASPer sample questions as soon as you can. In addition to the standard application components, MD PhD applicants will have to complete two additional essays that describe both their reasons for pursuing an MD PhD degree and their research experience. Review our medical school application timelines  blog to ensure you're aware of the application process and corresponding deadlines.

It's no secret that both MD PhD and MD programs are extremely competitive, with acceptance rates on average between 1-4%. There are far fewer MD PhD programs available compared with MD programs and the large benefit of reduced or waived tuition makes for even higher competition, especially in MSTPs vs MD programs. It's a good idea to use our medical school chance predictor to see how your grades and test scores compare with the average scores of accepted individuals into either program. Last year, MD PhD matriculants had an average MCAT score of 516 and an average GPA of 3.80 compared with the 511.5 MCAT score and 3.73 GPA of MD matriculants. So, we can see that in order to be a competitive MD PhD applicant, you'll have to possess a higher GPA and MCAT score than if you were to apply as an MD applicant. Of course, the level of competition varies between schools, and there are certainly MD programs that receive a high volume of applicants competing for few spots making some MD programs more competitive than MD-PhD programs, it's entirely dependant on the school, program, and application cycle.

MD PhD vs MD: Career Outlook and Salary

Although it may seem obvious that students who graduate from MD programs become medical doctors and most practice medicine at hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and private practices, some students are unsure of what a career looks like as a physician-scientist. Many MD PhD graduates choose to complete their residency training in internal medicine, pathology, pediatrics, and neurology, however, many other specialties are also represented, from surgery to radiology to emergency medicine. Internal medicine is also a common specialty choice for MD graduates as well as pediatrics, emergency medicine, and family medicine. According to a study conducted by the AAMC, nearly 80% of all MD PhD graduates enjoy careers as faculty members at medical schools or work for the National Institute of Health (NIH), other research institutions, industry, and federal agencies with many devoting a large portion of their time to research. Also, out of roughly 7000 MD-PhD alumni that took part in this study, 82% said that they would partake in MD-PhD training again, even if they had the chance to go back in time and change their mind.

Physician-scientists not only possess in-depth knowledge in the medical field, they also have knowledge of population health and disease and will be trained to conduct independent research and analysis. With this dual degree, physician-scientists are highly valued for their ability to treat patients while also contributing to detecting health threats, developing new treatments, therapies or even cures. Physician-scientists working in academia can teach and provide clinical service, while also conducting their own, or joint, research. The annual salary for physician-scientists is usually between $60,000-$115,000, depending on the type and place of employment.

Physicians manage and support the health and well-being of those in their care. Through physical examinations, diagnostic testing, treatment, and communication, they can manage and significantly improve the health of their patients. Depending on the type of physician, they may perform surgeries and treat either general or specific illness and disease. Annual salaries generally correspond to level of training and specialization and usually range from $180,000-$280,000

For some, from the moment they put on safety glasses in science class or that time they resuscitate their childhood teddy bear, they knew what they were going to be when they grew up. Not everyone has an immediate passion or the typical “aha” moment later on in life. Sometimes, a student's drive to medicine or research develops later on in life, through experiences, education or even while overcoming hardships, and this is perfectly normal. So, what if you have a passion for both science and medicine? How can you choose whether to pursue an MD degree or a joint MD PhD degree? It's important to choose only once you've considered a variety of factors and are 100% sure in your decision, because the reality is, neither option will be easy and you'll have to be willing to invest the time, money, and effort to be successful.

Find out what drives you.

Start by thinking about what you're interested in and what motivates you to help you determine where your true passions lie. If you know that you are really interested in medicine and in helping others but only have a slight interest in research, then it's probably a good idea to pursue medicine on its own. At nearly twice the length of an MD program, the MD PhD program is no walk in the park. Students should only pursue this joint degree if they have a serious passion for both medicine and research. In addition to feeling passionate about treating patients, if you find yourself interested in the mechanisms behind disease, are curious about the unknowns and can't picture a career that doesn't involve research, it's a good sign that the joint program will be suitable for you.

Determining whether or not you are interested in becoming a medical doctor or a physician-scientist is the first and most important decision you'll have to make when deciding between the two pathways. If you're motivated by your passions, you're likely to enjoy your career because it's actually what you want to do. By putting in the time and effort to be the best version of yourself, you'll have a fulfilling rewarding career.

So, how can you know for sure which path is the best for you? Gain experience in the field well in advance of filling out your applications. This will be closest you'll get to test drive your potential career choice. If you're struggling to decide between an MD and MD PhD program, be sure to gain both clinical and research experience. This will be a great way for you to get hands-on experience in both fields to see which areas really spark your interest and which areas you're not as keen on. Learn how to ask to shadow a doctor , sign up for volunteering experiences that place you in the medical or research field, and partake in scientific experiments where you'll be testing hypotheses to gain research experience. Not only will these experiences be essential when filling out your medical school applications, the key is that through a variety of different experiences, you'll be able to hone in on your interests.

Consider the affordability of each program.

According to the AAMC, approximately 76% of medical school students graduate with debt. For the students that borrow money, the median debt is approximately $200,000 at public medical schools. Of course, with an average physician salary of $300,000, this debt can be repaid, but it can be a rocky start for students as they begin entering their careers. A major benefit of MD PhD programs is the fact that most programs partially cover or completely waive tuition for enrolled students, and many also provide a stipend that can be used to cover the costs of living expenses. Due to this, some students can finish their training debt-free, and potentially even with a decent amount of savings. Now, this isn't to say that you should simply pick a program based on the cost but it's an important factor to consider if you want to pursue either option. What's important is that you pick your path depending on which best aligns with your interests, motivations, and short and long term career goals.

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Pros and Cons of the MD-PhD Degree

• By Lawrence Wang
• August 17, 2018
• Medical Student , Pre-med
• Clinical Rotations , Dual Degree , Research , Residency

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.”                                  -Robert Frost

Do you have an interest/background in medicine and research , but balk at the prospect of spending eight years getting the MD-PhD degree? You can theoretically do all the same things (i.e. see patients and run a research lab) with only an MD degree. There are plenty of MD’s out there who are successful physician-scientists, and the MD-PhD  is certainly the less common path, the road less traveled. So why bother getting a PhD as well?

These are all great questions, worth a fair amount of thought and reflection. Pursuing the rewarding, competitive, and singular pathway of a combined MD-PhD degree is a major decision that warrants a critical evaluation of its associated pros and cons.  So without further ado, let’s dive right in.

Pros of the MD-PhD Degree

1 | fully funded.

Medical school is expensive, with the average medical student graduating in 2017 with a debt of nearly $200,000 . In contrast, many MD-PhD students graduate debt-free and may even have a small nest egg saved away. This is because Medical Scientist Training Programs (MSTP) and many non-MSTP MD-PhD programs waive tuition and provide stipends to their students that are comparable to a biology graduate student stipend (~$30,000 of disposable income a year). The stipend is adjusted to match the cost of living in the city in which your school is located.

2 | Options for Fast-Tracking

MD-PhD’s enjoy specialized tracks that enable them to shorten their PhD and residency training. The PhD portion of the dual degree is an average of 4 years (vs. an average of 5-6 years for single degree PhD’s in the biomedical sciences).

Furthermore, MD-PhD graduates can “short-track” their residency into fellowship training. In the case of the three-year internal medicine residency, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) has a pathway that enables residents with a demonstrated potential for basic science or clinical research to spend only two years doing clinical training before returning to full-time research . These so-called “research residencies” are typically populated by MD-PhD’s, with a few MD-MPH/MD-MS/MD graduates that have strong research credentials thrown into the mix.

3 | Competitiveness for Funding to Start a Lab

According to an NIH report about physician-scientists , MD-PhD’s overall had higher award rates for research program grants (RPGs) (24.6%) than MD’s (21.7%, p<0.01) or PhD’s (21.4%, p<0.01). Furthermore, the award rate for MD-PhD’s from an MSTP program was nearly three times higher than that for MD/PhD’s not from an MSTP program (36.2% vs. 12.3%). If you are interested in more details, there is a wealth of outcomes data in this report as well as the  AAMC National MD-PhD Program Outcomes Study .

Cons of the MD-PhD Degree

1 | delayed autonomy.

The additional four years that an MD-PhD student invests in obtaining a PhD represent a significant opportunity cost (time and money). The ramifications of this can be broad. For example, an MD-PhD student living on a graduate student stipend may not have the financial autonomy to start a family until after they obtain an income (and free time!) commensurate to their training level. Furthermore, the average age of young investigators obtaining their first RPG’s continues to rise (44.3 years for MD-PhD’s, 43.8 years for MD’s, and 41.9 years for PhD’s in 2014) . The path of an academic researcher, especially an MD-PhD, creates an extreme delay in full professional autonomy.

2 | Disjointed Training

MD-PhDs are often likened to chimeras in their duality, which is exemplified by the disjointed path to obtaining the MD-PhD degree.

Students typically complete the first two pre-clinical years of medical school, transition to a 4-year PhD program, and then return to medical school to finish the last two clinical years before graduating with their dual degree. Subsequently, most pursue residency and fellowship training in their chosen medical specialties before finally becoming principal investigators (PIs) of a lab. This disjointed pathway forces many MD-PhD’s to play catch-up when they inevitably fall behind in either medicine or research. For instance, a common issue for MD-PhD’s is that their research skills become outdated when they return to clinical training for a number of years during the latter half of medical school and residency.

3| Balancing Clinical and Research Commitments

Juggling the considerable responsibilities of caring for patients and managing research projects can be challenging. Physician-scientists working at academic medical centers may be incentivized (or even pressured) to spend more time seeing patients, a task that earns more revenue for both the physician-scientist and the medical center. It also requires significant time and money for physician-scientists to maintain their clinical skills and board certifications. Consequently, many MD-PhD’s eventually dedicate themselves to either medicine or research and unfortunately let their less-used skill set fade into irrelevance.

Final Remarks

Any aspiring student considering a dual MD-PhD degree should think deeply and critically about whether this demanding career path is right for them. There are pros and cons to getting the MD-PhD degree, some of which may be deal-makers or deal-breakers. Ultimately, I see MD-PhD’s as chimeras walking a road less traveled, obtaining unique toolkits to address gaps in the existing body of medical knowledge and therapies. If this aligns with your goals, it can be an outstanding career!

If you are considering an MD-PhD degree but are unsure, please consider the Med School Insiders  general advising services . We have advisers who have completed this degree and can give you  detailed, real-world advice and feedback!

Lawrence Wang

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MD vs. MD/PhD: Key Differences and Choosing the Best Path

by internationalmedicalaid

MD/PhD vs. MD: Education

Both MDs and MD/PhDs are medical doctors, but MD/PhDs also hold a PhD and therefore are known as physician-scientists or medical scientists. If you want to obtain this additional title, you will need to take part in a program with a different structure and length than standard MD programs. MD/PhD programs are typically between seven to eight years in length and require one to attend both medical and graduate school. MD programs can be completed in four years (half the time of an MD/PhD program). During the first two years, both programs are classroom-based, but MD/PhD students will move on to grad school to complete their PhD thesis during years three and four. Afterward, they will return to medical school for one to two years to focus on completing clinical rotations. Both MD and MD/PhD students will take part in and spend around three to seven years in a residency program before obtaining their license to practice medicine.

MD/PhD vs. MD: Application and Tuition

The application for both programs is similar no matter which you decide to pursue. You will apply to the majority of these programs through the AMCAS , completing all sections of the application, including the AMCAS work and activities section , and uploading your coursework, letters of evaluation, and personal statement . Before submitting your application, it is important to check the requirements of each medical school, as some will require you to take the CASPer exam . If the program you want to apply to requires this exam, begin practicing for the exam by utilizing practice questions as soon as you can to best prepare yourself. In addition to the standard components of an MD program application, MD/PhD applicants will need to complete two additional essays. These essays will describe their reasons for pursuing an MD/PhD program and their previous research experience. Review each college’s application process and timeline to ensure you are aware of the process and any deadlines.

On average, the yearly medical school tuition for students enrolled in an MD program is around $37,000 in-state and $62,000 out-of-state or for those attending a private college. Students who are enrolled in MD/PhD programs often have the benefit of a largely reduced tuition or free tuition as some programs provide waivers and offer stipends to help students afford the cost of living expenses. Currently, forty-nine MD/PhD programs receive funding from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) through the Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP).

MD/PhD vs. MD: Competition

It’s no surprise that both MD/PhD and MD programs are highly competitive. The average acceptance rate of these programs is between 1-4%. Compared to MD programs, there are considerably fewer MD/PhD programs available. The added benefit of tuition waivers makes the competition for these programs even higher. With such high levels of competition, it is a good idea to see how your grades and test scores compare to the average scores of students accepted into the program. Last year, matriculants of MD/PhD programs had an MCAT score of 516 and an average GPA of 3.8. The average MCAT and GPA of MD program students was 511.5 and 3.73, respectively. From this data, we can determine that to be a competitive applicant get into an MD/PhD program, one will need to possess a higher GPA and MCAT score than what is typically required for an MD program. Of course, each college will also have varying levels of competition as some receive a higher volume of applications each year than others. 

If you are considering applying for an MD/PhD program and have already taken the MCAT but did not receive a score of 516 or higher, you may want to consider retaking the MCAT . Retaking the MCAT is not right for all students, but it may help boost your test score and give you an edge when applying to competitive programs. For further personalized help, consider seeking the guidance of medical school admissions consulting .

MD/PhD vs. MD: Salary and Career Outlook

While it may be obvious that those who graduate from an MD program go on to practice medicine as medical doctors within a hospital or clinic environment, some individuals are unsure of what post-grad life would look like for a physician-scientist. The majority of MD/PhD graduates choose to complete their residency in pediatrics, internal medicine, pathology, or neurology. However, many specialties are represented, from emergency medicine to surgery and radiology. Among MD graduates, internal medicine, pediatrics, family medicine, and emergency medicine are the most common specialties. According to AAMC’s study, almost 80% of MD/PhD graduates hold positions at federal agencies, research institutes, medical schools, or the National Institute of Health. Of the 7,000 MD/PhD grads who took part in the study, 82% said they would take part in an MD/PhD program again. 

Physician-scientist possess both in-depth knowledge of the medical field and knowledge of population health and disease. They are also trained to conduct thorough independent research and analysis. Physician-scientists with this dual degree are highly valued for their ability to treat patients, develop new treatments, and detect potential health threats. Those who choose to work in academia often teach and provide clinical services while also conducting their own research. The average annual MD/PhD salary is between $60k and $115k, depending on location and type of employment. 

Physicians manage the health and well-being of patients in their care. This is done through physical exams, treatment, diagnostic testing, and communication. Depending on the type of physician, they may treat specific or general illnesses and diseases and perform surgical procedures. The annual salaries of physicians correspond to their level of training and specialization, but on average, a non MD/PhD salary for physicians ranges from $180k to $280k.

MD/PhD vs. MD: Which is a for You?

For some people, they knew what they wanted to be from the moment they first put on safety glasses in science class or gave their teddy bear an exam with a toy stethoscope. However, not everyone has the “aha” moment or an immediate passion for a field of work. Sometimes, one’s drive and passion for medicine and research develop later in their life. This passion may be formed by experiences, education, or overcoming hardships. What if you have a passion for both medicine and science? How does one choose whether to pursue a joint MD/PhD or an MD degree? You should only choose after you’ve taken the time to consider the variety of factors involved and are 100% confident in your decision. The reality is that neither choice will be easy, and both will require you to invest a lot of time, effort, and money.

Discover What Drives You

Begin by thinking about what you’re interested in and what motivates you—this will help you determine what your true passion is. If you discover that you are highly interested in medicine and want to help others, but you only have a small interest in the field of research, it may be best to pursue a career solely in medicine. With it being twice the length of an MD program, an MD/PhD program is no cakewalk. Students should only pursue this program if they have deep passions for both medicine and research. If you feel passionate about helping and treating patients and are interested in discovering more about the mechanisms behind diseases or can’t imagine a career that doesn’t involve some form of research, then the joint program may be right for you. 

When deciding between these two career pathways, the first decision you will have to make is determining whether you are interested in becoming a physician-scientist or medical doctor. Those who are motivated by their passions are more likely to enjoy their career because they are doing something that they want to do. If you struggle to determine where your passions lie, consider participating in a pre-med shadowing study abroad program . 

Let Your Experiences Guide You

What’s the best way to know which path is right for you? Gain experience in the field you are interested in before filling out your medical school applications. If you are struggling to choose between the two program options, be sure to gain experience in both fields before making your final decision. Getting hands-on experience in both fields is a great way to discover which career path truly sparks your interest. Some ways to gain this hands-on experience are by shadowing a doctor or participating in a healthcare internship. These experiences will be essential when it’s time to fill out your med school application, and through these unique experiences, you will discover your passion.

Consider Each Program’s Affordability

According to data from AAMC, approximately 76% of med school students graduate with some form of college-related debt. For students who take out student loans, the median debt is around $200k. Of course, physicians often earn a high salary, so this debt can be repaid after entering the workforce, but many students experience a rocky start as they begin their careers. One of the biggest benefits of an MD/PhD program is that most of these programs partially cover or waive tuition for students. Students may also receive a stipend to cover the cost of their living expenses. This allows some students to complete their training and graduate debt free. While you shouldn’t choose a program only based on the cost associated with the program, it is an important factor to consider. You should make a decision that best aligns with your passions, motivations, interests, and career goals. 

International Medical Aid provides  global internship opportunities  for students and clinicians who are looking to broaden their horizons and experience healthcare on an international level. These program participants have the unique opportunity to shadow healthcare providers as they treat individuals who live in remote and underserved areas and who don’t have easy access to medical attention. International Medical Aid also provides  medical school admissions consulting  to individuals applying to medical school and PA school programs. We review primary and secondary applications, offer guidance for personal statements and essays, and conduct mock interviews to prepare you for the admissions committees that will interview you before accepting you into their programs. IMA is here to provide the tools you need to help further your career and expand your opportunities in healthcare.

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Md vs md phd: how to choose your best path.

Reviewed by:

Luke Hartstein

Former Admissions Committee Member, NYU Grossman School of Medicine

Reviewed: 5/13/24

You’re a prospective med student, and you’ve started your preliminary research on how to choose a medical school that will cultivate your interests and teach you the skills needed to be a leader in healthcare. Perhaps you greatly enjoy biomedical research and would like to combine your two passions: practicing medicine and conducting scientific research. 

So, what is the Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree versus the MD PhD, and how do you choose your best path? This blog will comprehensively review the similarities and differences between the MD and MD PhD degrees, including the application process and the education you can expect to receive for each program. 

Get The Ultimate Guide on Writing an Unforgettable Personal Statement

What is an MD? ‍

An MD is simply a Doctor of Medicine or physician who obtained their MD degree at an allopathic medical school accredited by the LCME (Liaison Committee of Medical Education). Allopathic medicine focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disease. When people think of physicians, they generally think of MDs. 

To become an MD, you must:

• Earn a bachelor’s degree at an accredited university and complete all required prerequisite courses for medical school . Your pre-med major doesn’t need to be in the sciences, but you need to complete science prerequisite coursework, including labs. Every school has specific requirements regarding which prerequisites to take, so check with the schools to ensure that you fulfill all undergrad requirements. If you need help with selecting and scheduling your prerequisite coursework, connect with a pre-health advisor. 
• Take the MCAT and earn a competitive score . The MCAT is one of the most important selection factors for medical schools, and it is a strong indicator of your academic performance. Matriculated students often exceed the school’s minimum required MCAT score, so you should aim to fall within or exceed the school’s median MCAT score. In addition to the MCAT, some medical schools require the CASPer test .
• Graduate from an accredited allopathic medical school. Most MD programs are four years, with a few exceptions. For example, some schools have accelerated MD degrees that you can complete in just three years.
• Complete a residency . Residency programs typically last from three to eight years. Residents perform extensive duties in a clinical setting, such as interpreting charts and lab work, taking patient histories, attending conferences, and conducting physical exams. Residency applicants are matched to programs depending on their personal preferences via the National Resident Matching Program.
• Obtain licensure. MDs must obtain a license to practice medicine by passing the USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination). Each state has different requirements to become licensed. For example, some states limit the number of times you can take the USMLE, while other states have no such restrictions on exam attempts. 
• Continue your education. Generally, physicians must complete state-required continuing education before renewing licensure every couple of years. 

What is an MD PhD?

An MD PhD is also a Doctor of Medicine who additionally holds a PhD in scientific research. MD PhDs are known as physician-scientists or medical scientists. There are over 100 MD PhD programs affiliated with medical schools, and approximately 40 programs are partially supported by training grants known as MSTPs (Medical Science Training Programs).

Physician-scientists focus on both scientific research/discovery and treating patients in clinical settings. They have the unique skill set to research healthcare topics, including biomedical sciences, biochemistry, cell biology, microbiology, immunology, genetics, physiology, pharmacology, and neuroscience. 

In short, MD PhDs blend scientific research with clinical medicine. 

To become an MD PhD, you must:

• Complete all of the requirements for medical school to obtain your traditional MD degree. 
• In addition to attending medical school for your MD, you must also attend graduate school for your PhD. Because you are completing both programs dually, the duration of your education is seven to eight years (four years for the MD; three to four years for the PhD).
• Complete medical training and conduct mentored, integrated, and mechanism-based research throughout the PhD program and for your thesis. 

MD PhD programs actively seek applicants who exhibit the core competencies of entering medical students and have an aptitude for biomedical research. Applicants must have strong critical thinking and analytical skills to conduct and interpret research. Lastly, and most importantly, prospective candidates should have substantial research experience .

MD vs MD PhD: Application Process and Education

The application process for the MD and MD PhD programs is very similar. For most allopathic medical schools, you will use the AMCAS (American Medical College Application Service).

There are exceptions; for example, Texas medical schools use the TMDSAS (Texas Medical & Dental Schools Application Service). As always, follow every school’s individual requirements to use the appropriate application service portals. 

In the AMCAS, you will have to select which degree you’re applying to and enter all required information. For the MD program, there are nine sections:

• Sections 1-3 are where you will input background information, such as your name, biographical information, identifiers, and the schools you’ve attended. 
• Section 4 is where you will enter your school transcripts and undergraduate coursework. 
• Section 5 is the work and activities section where you will enter relevant extracurricular activities , work experience, and appropriate hobbies . 
• Section 6 is where you will upload your letters of evaluation. 
• Section 7 is where you will enter the school’s information, such as the program to which you’re applying and whether you’re applying for an early decision. 
• Section 8 is the personal statement . 
• Section 9 is where you will enter your test scores, such as the MCAT. 

To apply to the MD PhD program, you will have to complete all nine sections of the AMCAS. Additionally, you will have to complete two additional essays that describe your reasons for pursuing the MD PhD degree and your research experience.

Here is a general idea of what the MD PhD education looks like, year by year, according to the AAMC:

Discover how Patrick got into six fully funded MD/ Phd programs in the video below.

MD vs MD PhD: Career Outlook and Salary ‍

A benefit of the MD PHD vs MD debate is that both enjoy lucrative, rewarding careers in medicine. Typically, MDs become physicians who practice medicine in hospitals, private practices, clinics, and other medical centers. MD PhDs become physician-scientists, and according to the AAMC , nearly 80% of them follow career paths consistent with their training, which include working in medical schools as faculty members or in other research institutions, such as the NIH (National Institutes of Health) and other federal agencies. 

Physician-scientists are highly valued for both their medical training to treat patients and their extensive knowledge of public health, disease, treatment, and hot topics in healthcare. They can work in academia and teach, or they can combine clinical service with independent research. According to the AAMC, over 80% of graduates said that they would choose the MD PhD program again if given the chance. This should give you an idea of how passionate physician-scientists are about biomedical research.

For MDs , depending on their specialty and setting, the average annual salary is around $220k. For MD PhDs , depending on the type of role and place of employment, the average annual salary is about $100k.

Which is Better? Tips for Choosing Between the Two ‍

So, now that you know a bit more about the MD and MD PhD degrees, which is better? To make the best decision for your goals, keep the following tips in mind:

Examine your passions honestly.

Are you excited to work with patients, but research doesn’t motivate you as much? Then you should stick with the traditional MD degree. Students who pursue the MD PhD do so because of their equal passion for clinical medicine and research. Keep in mind that the MD PhD has additional years of school, so it is not a decision that should be made lightly.  ‍

Use your experiences and extracurricular activities to guide you. ‍

Think back to your medical shadowing or clinical experience . Compare your insights to your research experience. Which experience was the most rewarding to you? Which did you enjoy the most? Can you see yourself conducting research your entire career? It would be helpful to use your experiences and extracurricular activities as a measure of your interests.

In short, students who don’t absolutely love research should consider pursuing an MD degree, while those who do love research should look into the MD PhD dual degree.

1. What Are the Top MD Programs In the United States?

According to the US News & World Report, the following medical schools consistently rank the highest:

• Harvard Medical School
• Perelman School of Medicine
• Grossman School of Medicine (NYU)
• Johns Hopkins University
• Stanford Medical School
• Columbia University
• Mayo Clinic School of Medicine 
• David Geffen School of Medicine (UCLA)
• Washington University
• Cornell University
• Duke University
• University of California - San Francisco
• Vanderbilt University
• Yale University

2. How Do I Know Which MD PhD Program Is Right for Me?

Ultimately, you will have to decide for yourself which program is the best fit for your particular interests and career goals. However, take a look at the US News & World Report’s list of signs that an MD PhD program is a great fit:

• There is ample funding.
• The location is desirable for your requirements.
• There is a good balance between clinics and research.
• The school has a history of strong publications/research.
• The program’s academic breadth is multi-disciplinary, ensuring that students will have a good selection of topics to research.
• Clinical training is introduced early in the program.
• There are numerous mentors available to oversee research projects.
• Current MD PhD students are satisfied with their program.
• The program’s alumni perform high-level research and publishing, which is a strong indicator of future success.
• The program’s mission and culture align with your academic and career goals.

3. Can I Apply to the MD Program And the MD PhD Program at One School In the Same Cycle?‍

In the AMCAS, you must indicate the program to which you are applying, and it cannot be both for one school in the same application cycle. However, if you indicate that you are applying to the MD PhD program, most schools will first consider you for the dual degree program, and if you are not accepted, they will consider you for the MD program. Please reach out to your selection of schools to learn more about their application procedures regarding dual degrees and final decisions. ‍

4. What Topics In Healthcare Do MD PhDs Research?

According to the AAMC , MD PhDs can research various topics in the following disciplines:

• Biochemistry and Macromolecular Biophysics 
• Cell and Developmental Biology 
• Immunology 
• Molecular Biology and Genetics 
• Microbiology and Infectious Disease 
• Neuroscience 
• Pathology and Mechanisms of Disease 
• Pharmacology 
• Bioengineering and Biomedical Imaging 
• Chemical and Physical Sciences 
• Computational Biology and Bioinformatics 
• Public Health, Epidemiology, and Preventative Medicine 
• Social and Behavioral Sciences 

There may be variations among different programs, so verify with the school before you apply. ‍

5. Is Financial Assistance Available For MD Programs?

Generally, yes. The cost of attendance is an important consideration when applying to medical schools. There is federal assistance through FAFSA, in addition to scholarships, grants, and loans. To learn more about financial planning, please reach out to the Student Financial Services office for every school you apply to discuss your options. 

6. Is Financial Assistance Available For MD PhD Programs?

One of the most significant perks of MD PhD programs is that most either partially cover or completely waive tuition for students. Stipends are also very common to cover the costs of living expenses for students. Because of this, many MD PhDs graduate with little to no debt. Although this shouldn’t be the only deciding factor for pursuing the MD PhD degree (remember to keep your goals in mind), it is a benefit that may spare you from, on average, $200k in debt.

7. What Counts As a Substantial Research Experience?

Substantial research experience involves some effort and commitment on your part. Before applying to the MD PhD program, be sure to have multiple summer research projects. You are also encouraged to have one or more years of pursuing research after completing your bachelor’s degree. This may mean that you have to take a gap year to bolster your application with research experience, but don’t worry. 

Many students take a gap year for this very reason, to gain relevant experiences and strengthen their application. You should also strive to have publications, and it’s important to list them in your application materials. You must also have experience in accurately testing a hypothesis. It is also important to note that gaining more research experience will strengthen your skills in this field, but you will work with supervisors and mentors who can become potential letter writers for strong letters of recommendation . 

8. Where Can I Find More Information About the MD PhD Degree?‍

For more information about the MD PhD degree , please visit AAMC’s MD PhD authority site .

Final Thoughts

As you can see, both the MD and MD PhD programs will lead to lucrative careers in medicine. Whether you pursue the MD degree or the MD PhD dual degree depends on your interests, motivations, passions, academic goals, and career aspirations. When you’re applying to either program, be sure to follow the medical school’s specific application guidelines and procedures.

Make sure your research experience is substantial. It’s important to have a competitive edge over other MD PhD candidates who undoubtedly will have their own strong research experiences and publications. No matter which path you choose, we wish you the best of luck in your efforts. 

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MD vs PhD - Which should You study?

31 st October 2019

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If you want to further your position on the career ladder within the medical profession, then a course of postgraduate study may be your best choice. However, there are two options available for those wishing to pursue further qualifications in medicine - a  PhD  (Doctor of Philosophy) or an MD   (Doctor of Medicine).

Which one should you go for? We take a look at the differences between the two to help you decide...

PhD vs. MD: Course Structure

One of the key differences between a PhD and an MD is the structure of the course. While a PhD is generally lab-based and lasts a minimum of 3 years, the MD lasts 2-3 years and combines a student’s research findings with clinical practice.

Both qualifications require a student to submit a thesis or a portfolio of published work at the end of their course.

PhD vs. MD: Career Ambitions

Whether you decide to study for a PhD in Medicine or for an MD qualification, this will have a significant impact upon your career. For the most part, those with an MD are more suited to clinical roles, using their specialist knowledge to diagnose and interact with patients. For those wishing to be working doctors, this may be the ideal option for you.

However, if you’re looking to take your career in a research-based direction, then you may wish to study a PhD.

PhD vs. MD: Academic Prestige

While both the MD and the PhD are highly regarded qualifications, it could be argued that there is (in general) slightly more prestige attached to having a PhD, as the course is longer and the research more thorough.

Having said this, if you want to pursue a career in clinical practice but academic reputation of your qualification isn't that important to you, it isn’t essential to study on a PhD course. There are a number of prestigious institutions (including University of Cambridge) that offer a wide range of renowned MD qualifications. 

PhD vs. MD: Financial restrictions

One of the key things to take into consideration when studying any postgraduate course is the cost. While all courses are going to cost money, it is important that you consider whether or not you can afford the course before making your application. In order to study on an MD or a PhD the majority of students will finance the course through a combination of loans and external funding.

Despite this, studying on an MD or a PhD may become a financial struggle as both courses are very time demanding. However, with an MD, there are some opportunities to find medical paid work during your clinical learning, whereas this is much harder for those studying on a PhD.

Both MD and PhDs typically costs between £4,000 and £6,000 per year, but as the MD course only lasts 2 years (full-time), the cost of fees is a lot lower. 

- Search for MD courses  or PhD courses  

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In partnership with the  Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , the Bloomberg School offers students the opportunity to earn a Doctor of Medicine (MD) alongside a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) – a rigorous combination that prepares graduates for prestigious careers in academic medicine.

The long-lasting relationship between the School of Medicine and the Bloomberg School – both situated along the same city block here in Baltimore – fosters the ideal environment for this combined six or eight year program.

Students complete two years of medical school before devoting themselves full-time to their PhD studies. After completion of the PhD degree requirements, students then complete their MD degree.

Interested “physician-scientists” should contact the MD/PhD program administrator, Sharon Welling ( [email protected]  or 410-955-8008), and visit the  MD/PhD Program's website  for full details on admission requirements and application procedures.  

What is the Real Difference between an MD and PhD?

Phds advance knowledge, whereas mds merely apply existing knowledge..

Posted March 7, 2011 | Reviewed by Kaja Perina

If you ask someone in the psychology world how people with PhDs (Doctor of Philosophy ) differ from those with MD (Doctor of Medicine) you may get an answer like "MDs can prescribe medication , whereas PhDs cannot." That is true. Another difference is that MDs generally make more money in the United States.

MDs are consider by many to be the "real doctors" because they can help with physiological medical problems. That too is true. I certainly don't refer to myself as "Dr. Kelly" in any context other than an academic setting, because people might get the false impression that I could jump in and help in the event of a broken foot or migraine headache.

All that sounds pretty bad for the PhD. But here's the most essential difference between the two degrees: PhDs advance knowledge, whereas MDs merely apply existing knowledge. Unlike the MD who does not need to produce any original research, the person earning a PhD must produce original research and write it up in a thesis or dissertation. Then a committee of experts must deem that thesis as offering an acceptable advancement of knowledge before the PhD is conferred. It typically takes a couple of years longer to earn a PhD than an MD. Part of the reason it takes so long is that the person earning the PhD is being trained on how to think critically about existing knowledge, and it can take a while to find one's niche and fill a gap in the knowledge base.

If you yourself want to make important scientific discoveries and then tell the world about them, you will be much better prepared by getting a PhD than an MD. You also will be much better prepared to criticize studies you read about in virtually any field because you will be trained in critical thinking and writing.

If you are deciding which degree is right for you, ask yourself if you will be content with applying the knowledge you learn (MD) from other people, or if you would like to get in on the action of making the discoveries yourself (PhD). For instance, would you like to be one of the scientists who are figuring out how to reverse the aging process (PhD)? Would you like to see if giving aging mice a particular the enzyme (one that you discover) makes their hair shiny again and restores their fertility (PhD)? Or would you be content giving your future medical patients the proper dose of the medications that arise from this research and then seeing the signs of youth return in your patients (MD)? These are the kinds of questions that college students everywhere should be asking themselves, and yet I have never seen them do so.

This difference in training also means that if you want to know what the cutting -edge knowledge is in a given field, you have to ask a PhD in that field, not an MD. So for instance, let's say you or your mate is having trouble getting pregnant . If you just ask your local obstetrician or gynecologist what the cutting edge discoveries are regarding fertility, that MD is not likely to know. That MD can give you fertility treatments that he or she has learned about and tried with other patients. It should be noted, however, that many MDs make an effort to remain abreast of scientific research long after their degree has been conferred.

The upshot of my message is this: We need both kinds of people, those who apply existing knowledge (such as the MD does in the medical field) and those who advance it (PhDs). But if you think a PhD is less qualified than an MD when it comes to having cutting-edge knowledge, you have that backwards.

Anita E. Kelly, Ph.D., is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Notre Dame. She is author of The Clever Student and The Psychology of Secrets.

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Ph.D. Vs. MD: What’s The Difference?

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For individuals looking to pursue a doctorate, most are faced with the decision between PhDs ( Doctor of Philosophy) or MDs (Doctor of Medicine) degrees. These two may seem similar in nature, but there are key differences it’s important to understand before you pursue either one. Depending on your professional goals, one may suit you better than the other.

Both PhDs and MDs represent the highest level of graduate school one can receive. They are prestigious degrees in both regards but can significantly impact your career path once you’re finished with school. In this article, we’ll discuss what each degree is, the differences between them, and which one may be best for the types of goals an individual seeks.

Key Takeaways:

What Is an MD?

MD stands for Doctor of Medicine, meaning those who achieve this level of education are allopathic doctors. This means they are individuals who are licensed to treat and diagnose conditions using tools like x-rays, prescription drugs, and surgery. They can work as broader practitioners or work with a specific specialty.

Pursuing an MD means individuals are pursuing a traditional medical degree where they undergo practical training as they work through graduate school in the hopes of becoming licensed physicians by the time they graduate. Depending on their fields of specialty, their training may vary. Some of these specialties include

Surgery. Surgeons are doctors who specialize in evaluating and treating conditions that require physical changes to the human body. Surgeons use instruments to move live tissues in order to treat a specific ailment or illness. They can perform both open surgery and minimally invasive surgery.

Specific body parts or organs. MDs can also specialize in body parts or organs, becoming a cardiologist who is an expert on the heart, gastroenterologists who specialize in digestive organs, hematologists who specialize in blood, or neurologists who specialize in the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Psychiatry. Psychiatrists are MDs who specialize in mental health, which can include substance use disorders. They are licensed and qualified to assess the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems as well as administer certain prescription drugs to help with these issues.

Geriatric medicine. MDs in geriatrics have additional specialized training in treating the ailments and illnesses of older patients. They often work in outpatient settings, nursing facilities, or hospitals. They often have added knowledge of diseases such as dementia, incontinence, or osteoporosis.

Pediatrics. Pediatricians are MDs who focus on the health of infants, children, adolescents, and young adults, typically up to age 21. These doctors prevent, detect, and manage any physical, behavioral, or developmental issues that may arise in children or young adults.

In order to become an MD, students must attend graduate school with the specific goal of becoming a physician . It’s during this time most choose a specialty and gain specific experience in that area. Because MDs have expertise in practicing medicine, they are more likely to be found in clinical environments.

A standard program for an MD requires students to take two years of coursework in a classroom-based setting. Then, they’ll be required to take two years of rotational work in a clinical environment. They must attend an accredited medical school as well as a residency program that prepares them to diagnose patients and practice medicine.

What Is a Ph.D.?

A Ph.D. or Doctor of Philosophy is a doctoral research degree that requires the completion of intensive research in order to become an expert in a specific field. To receive this type of degree, a Ph.D. must defend a dissertation or a research document. Unlike an MD, a Ph.D. can be awarded for carrying out original research in any field, not just medicine.

A Ph.D. in a medicinal field is focused on finding out new knowledge as opposed to learning current knowledge, like an MD. That means if you pursue a Ph.D. in medicine, you are not required to attend medical school or complete a residency program. Your dissertation and defense of that dissertation are what complete your program.

Ph.D. programs focus almost entirely on conducting, compiling, and contributing to specific research. The standard Ph.D. program lasts anywhere from five to seven years and seeks students undertaking original research that is typically monitored by a supervisor . Achieving a Ph.D. means the student has contributed to novel findings leading to advancement in knowledge.

There is such a wide variety of Ph.D. fields, but it would be impossible to list them all here; however, it’s important to note that most Ph.D. students continue their studies in their field long after graduation is behind them. Typically they will continue their research and participate in other programs that allow for further research.

Individuals working towards a Ph.D. often choose to work in academia, such as at a college or university, where they can continue their research. Others may opt to work for independent companies such as pharmaceutical or engineering companies. Others may use their Ph.D. in fields unrelated to research, such as senior positions in their field of study.

Ph.D. vs. MD FAQ

Is an MD or Ph.D. better?

Depending on your professional goals, an MD degree is better for those interested in practicing medicine, while a Ph.D. is better for individuals looking to advance knowledge in certain fields.

Does an MD or Ph.D. make more money?

This typically depends on the specific specialty or setting, but MDs typically earn more money than those with a Ph.D.

Can an MD research without obtaining a Ph.D.?

Yes, an MD does not need a Ph.D. to conduct research.

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

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MD vs. MD PhD [Which Is Better For You?]

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Are you still contemplating: MD vs. MD PhD ? Through this article, I’ll help you understand the difference between the two so you can decide which one suits you the most.

If you’re ready to proceed, let’s start diving deeper into the differences between an MD and PhD !

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Table Of Contents

What Is An MD?

People who aspire to become a physician can pursue a Doctor of Medicine or MD degree, and they are highly responsible for examining, diagnosing, and treating patients while following correct protocols. An MD undergoes practical training, chooses medical specialization, and gains experience in the field .

MD students attended allopathic medical school and had to pass the USMLE or the United States Medical Licensing Examination . A designed USMLE assesses a student’s medical competency and it consists of three levels.

There are numerous types of medical doctors, and their title varies depending on their area of specialization . Successful MD students are more likely to enter clinical environments.

What Is An MD PhD?

An MD PhD is a dual doctoral degree known as a Doctor of Medicine and Philosophy . They have a different curriculum than MDs, where they are more hands-on in researching and discovering new knowledge . 

A career with an MD PhD, a combination of physician-scientist , allows you to solve a patient’s medical issues through extensive research . The program’s approach highly influences the students’ path, making them more likely to enter academic environments.

MD vs. MD PhD: Education

MDs have to complete a 4-year curriculum before applying to medical schools . 

• Often, the first two years are for pre-clinical focusing on core foundations .
• It is followed by another year for training in similar specialties , such as Internal Medicine, OBGYN, Pediatrics, Family Medicine, and many more.
• An internship would be the last hurdle.

To receive the degree, MD students must prove their knowledge through skills application during an internship and residency , allowing them to experience the job first-hand and learn from professional doctors. Other than that, a licensure exam is a must for this degree before they can practice independently.

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An MD PhD’s curriculum generally takes more years to finish than an MD’s. This program might take at least seven years, and it will supposedly be composed of the following:

• It starts with classroom-based classes .
• Then, the following is a few more years in graduate school for a PhD thesis . One should complete research and defend it from a panel. It can be about biomedical sciences, engineering, and other disciplines such as health policy, epidemiology, public health, chemistry, and so on.
• Then they’re back for clinical rotations .
• And finally, residency training is needed before getting a license.

As of 2022, the average yearly medical school tuition fees for MD students range from $37,000 to $62,000 . In comparison, it’s easier for your budget to take MD PhD programs since several offered scholarships and stipends exist that you can use as financial support for the whole duration of your career training.

MD vs. MD PhD: Career And Salary

MDs can pursue a research career, and an MD PhD can pursue a clinical career. However, one can’t deny that MDs are more suitable to pursue careers in the hands-on medical field , while PhDs would fit research-heavy careers more .

For both MD and MD PhD, depending on what interests you, you can work in clinical research, health services research, or laboratory science research, and you can also teach introductory courses, supervise student research, and teach physician assistants. 

If you pursue an MD degree you might end up in hospitals, clinics, medical centers, and private practices. Here are some of the job options and their respective average annual salary:

Anesthetists 

They are responsible for providing anesthesia to patients before the operation proceeds. They can earn an average salary of $331,937.

Cardiologists 

Cardiologists assess, diagnose, and treat patients with heart diseases, and they can earn an average salary of $351,827.

Clinical Radiologist

They are trained professionals who can read and interpret medical images to assess possible diseases and diagnose patients. They can earn an average salary of $437,590.

General Practice Doctor

General Practice Doctors or General practitioners’, their role is to provide medical treatment to patients with typical medical conditions. They can earn an average salary of $219,090.

Hospital Doctors

Their work involves interacting with patients, specializing in various medical areas, and treating medical conditions, and they can earn an average salary of $260,000.

Neurologists

They are trained professionals who diagnose and treat diseases that affect the brain and nervous system. They can earn an average salary of $270,900.

Ophthalmologists 

Specialize in eye care; they can handle treatment, surgery, and prescription for eye problems. They can earn an average salary of $311,471.

Pathologists

Pathologists partners up with different healthcare providers to diagnose a patient. They study body tissues and fluids and can earn an average salary of $200,890.

Psychiatrists

A psychiatrist specializing in assessing and treating mental health problems can earn an average salary of $224,247.

Surgeons 

They are responsible for performing operations on patients, administering postoperative care,  and are considered surgical team leaders. They can earn an average salary of $415,692.

Meanwhile, if you pursue an MD PhD degree, then the following are where you can end up:

Academic Medical Centers

You’ll mostly be doing research and can go to various departments in academic medicine, such as Internal medicine, Pediatrics, Pathology, Neurology, Surgery, Psychiatry, Ophthalmology, and many more. You are also eligible to become a faculty member in academic schools.

Government and Private Research Institutes

In these institutes, you’ll again spend more time applying your knowledge concerning health and diseases to do independent or group research.

Private practices

Compared to MDs, MD PhDs earn less. The salary depends on the job and the institute one gets in, but you can expect an average annual salary ranging from $60,000 to $115,000.

MD vs. MD PhD: Which Is Better For You?

If you have a specific career you’ve set your mind on, it’ll be easier to know which degree you’ll take. But if you can’t think of a particular job that resonates with you, it’ll be harder to decide and would most likely waste more of your time and brain power.

Fortunately, several helpful pieces of advice can help in organizing your thoughts. For a better understanding, the following are a few tips you can try to know whether MD or MD PhD suits you :

• You can start by assessing your primary interest . Having an initial fascination with something specific allows you to narrow down your considerations.
• Know and understand where your interests lay, what motivates you, and what your passions are . Also, understand what matters more for you and what aligns with your ideal future.  Are you interested in mainly diagnosing and treating patients ? Or are you interested in r esearching and finding cures for a specific disease ? Find out which one weighs more for you.
• Gain experience in the field you are eyeing . Prior experiences before deciding between the two degrees would help you understand whether that field is where you see yourself working more or if it fits you.  Only when you experience something will you truly realize what sparks your interests and whether you can last long in that area of expertise.
• Not everyone can afford medical school tuition fees ; if you’re one of those also highly considering that, it’ll affect your decision-making, too. Carefully consider whether having tuition debt is alright or if you prefer those that offer tuition and stipend assistance.
• Consider where and how you want to work, then do your research, and compare your wants and needs to how MD or an MD PhD careers work. The career’s work environment differs; for example, an MD allows you to associate with patients, have long shifts, and rarely have standard schedules , while an MD PhD might spend more time working independently on research .

Here is a quick recall of the differences between MD vs. MD PhD:

Hopefully, you have found this article about MD vs. MD PhD helpful enough. Now, you can take your time deciphering all the pieces of information given in this article and adequately decide between the two.

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What Premed Students Should Know About Emerging Fields of Medical Research

Aspiring physician-scientists should bone up on areas such as gene editing, nanotechnology and regenerative medicine.

Premeds and Emerging Medical Research

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If you find a field that interests you, don't hesitate to join a like-minded laboratory while training.

Premedical students aspiring to become physician-scientists will be tasked with navigating emerging fields in research and translating exciting discoveries into the clinical realm. Understanding the latest trends and breakthroughs in biomedical science is paramount for those hoping to bridge the gap between such cutting-edge research and clinical practice – a career goal for many aspiring physician-scientists.

What are these emerging fields, what should aspiring physician-scientists – including those applying to combined M.D.-Ph.D. programs – know about getting involved in these fields, and are there any pitfalls? 

This is an extraordinarily exciting time in scientific research, with recent breakthroughs in diverse fields such as gene editing, immunotherapies, nanotechnology, precision medicine, machine learning and regenerative medicine. Highlights run the gamut of the biomedical spectrum, including evolutionary genomics, novel neurotechnology, advances in cardiovascular imaging, cell-based therapies and therapeutic manipulation of the microbiome, to name a few.

Aspiring physician-scientists will undoubtedly be tempted to ride this wave of exciting discoveries and join laboratories moving the needle in these fields, many of which are still in their infancy. 

Premed students should be aware of these emerging fields, as these advances are expected to contribute increasingly to health care throughout the coming decades and will undoubtedly remain important for the duration of a lengthy career in medicine .

These fields are likely to hold long-term career opportunities for students interested in biomedical research. They also represent opportunities to contribute to innovation, be involved in groundbreaking discoveries and help shape the future of science and medicine.

Many emerging fields are exciting in part due to new or newly appreciated applications to clinical practice, with direct implications for patient care . By understanding these emerging fields, premed students will remain informed and up to date regarding novel treatment paradigms, new diagnostic tools and different preventive strategies that could benefit their future patients. 

Students’ research interests often evolve during undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate education. Many fascinating fields of biomedical science are neither new nor well known, and they deserve serious consideration. You will have multiple opportunities to change fields should your interests diverge at any point, so you should not feel locked in to the discipline of your first research experience.

However, if you do have a genuine intellectual interest in a popular scientific field at an early phase of training, don’t hesitate to join such a like-minded laboratory. 

Finding a Laboratory in Emerging Research Fields

If you are a premed student interested in an exciting field like cancer immunotherapy, genomics, AI-enabled precision medicine , etc., you may struggle to understand which laboratories would be appropriate and rewarding to join and a good fit for your career goals.

To start, assess the research landscape at your home institution through departmental web pages and note which faculty in your field of interest are involved in active research projects. Get in touch with a few faculty members and discuss the possibility of joining their laboratory.

As you learn about their research projects, you can also ask if they know of other labs in the same field that may also be of interest. Often, research faculty themselves are the best resource for understanding the current research landscape of the university, as departmental web pages and related resources can be out of date. 

Departmental administrators or undergraduate research coordinators may also be quite helpful in finding a lab in a specific area that would be a good fit for an undergraduate student. If you read a lay press article – especially from a local publication – about an area of exciting, “hot” science, pay attention to which studies and researchers they reference or quote. These investigators are often leading voices in the field. 

Use PubMed to find the latest work in a field or by a specific investigator. Explore the "trending articles" section to see which articles have had recent activity – a sign of a field gaining broad interest. If you find investigators doing work that is particularly interesting to you, use the "saved searches" function to get updates about their work directly in your email inbox. 

Appreciate that emerging fields are often a result of novel collaboration across disparate disciplines such as distinct subfields in biology and medicine, biomedical engineering or computer science .

Application of a known technology to a new field can also yield exciting advancements. A recent example is cryo-EM-mediated determination of complex structures, such as ligand-bound receptors, which could not previously be accurately determined.

Look for labs that are working in an interdisciplinary manner to tackle an important question in medicine or biology, and you are likely to find stimulating research in an important emerging field. 

Pitfalls to Avoid

Avoid presuming that only well-known fields with significant popularity and press attention are the only interesting domains of scientific research. The biggest discoveries often come from unpredictable places, and their genesis can be traced to less well-known fields.

Recent high-profile examples include prokaryotic genomics that spawned CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing, and nucleoside modifications that advanced mRNA vaccines. This is characteristic of biomedical research and should lead you to explore various fields and meet with a variety of investigators to find the field, research and lab that most interest you. 

A few exceedingly popular fields – such as microbiome research, cancer immunotherapy , etc. – run the risk of becoming oversaturated, with many excellent investigators trying to solve similar problems. These fields can thus become quite competitive, with several associated challenges.

If you do join a competitive field, look for opportunities to do novel work that can separate your project from the rest of the crowd. A good strategy when selecting a laboratory is to assess which researchers are pushing the boundaries in these fields and are looking to incorporate interdisciplinary approaches, as they are more likely to be working in their own lane, away from other investigators. Use the same approach when selecting a project within your lab.

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About Medical School Admissions Doctor

Need a guide through the murky medical school admissions process? Medical School Admissions Doctor offers a roundup of expert and student voices in the field to guide prospective students in their pursuit of a medical education. The blog is currently authored by Dr. Ali Loftizadeh, Dr. Azadeh Salek and Zach Grimmett at Admissions Helpers , a provider of medical school application services; Dr. Renee Marinelli at MedSchoolCoach , a premed and med school admissions consultancy; Dr. Rachel Rizal, co-founder and CEO of the Cracking Med School Admissions consultancy; Dr. Cassie Kosarec at Varsity Tutors , an advertiser with U.S. News & World Report; Dr. Kathleen Franco, a med school emeritus professor and psychiatrist; and Liana Meffert, a fourth-year medical student at the University of Iowa's Carver College of Medicine and a writer for Admissions Helpers. Got a question? Email [email protected] .

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CARING: Combating Antibiotic Resistance into the Next Generation

NIH Training Grant for Research-Oriented Infectious Diseases Subspecialty Fellows The overarching goal of the CARING T32 training program awarded to UC San Diego from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases is to train MD and PhD scientists who wish to pursue rigorous research training that will place them on the pathway to productive, independent academic research careers. CARING entails a high level of commitment to each trainee in terms of training duration and intensity, coupled with the multidisciplinary character of the training experience, thus enabling extremely successful trainees in progressing to the next stages of development of careers as physician investigators. Upon completion of the CARING program, trainees will be well-trained in modern infectious disease research focused on providing innovative solutions to the growing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) crisis.

How to Apply: To be considered for the CARING Training Grant Fellowship you must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and you must have a doctoral degree. To apply, please send the following information to Dr. Ericka Anderson (Program Coordinator) at [email protected] MD (or MD/PhD) candidates: Clinically trained candidates for T32 training grant slots must first be accepted into the respective adult or pediatric ID Training Program at UC San Diego.

• Your CV – must be current and up to date
• 3 letters of recommendation (For MD/PhD candidates, one letter must come from their PHD mentor)
• Personal Statement – explain why you are a good candidate for the fellowship. Please state the specific AMR-related research that interests you, relevant experience that you have, and what your goals will be during and after the fellowship.
• Sample first author manuscript or abstract

PhD Candidates

• 3 letters of recommendation (one letter must come from PhD mentor)
• Statement of prior research accomplishments
• Sample First author manuscript
• Statement of interest in AMR research with future career goals
• Letter of support from the proposed T32 Research Mentor
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Commitment to healthy people and communities unites 2024 graduates.

The UW School of Medicine and Public Health class of 2024 spans numerous fields but its members share a commitment to empathy and compassion, coupled with a dedication to providing remarkable care and performing innovative research. Through the myriad careers ahead of them, these Badgers will maintain commitment to a vision of healthy people and healthy communities.

The school’s health professions programs — Doctor of Medicine , Doctor of Physical Therapy , Master of Genetic Counselor Studies , Master of Physician Assistant Studies and Master of Public Health — held graduate recognition ceremonies from Thursday, May 9 through Saturday, May 11, as did many basic sciences graduate degree programs affiliated with the school.

Celebrations continued into Friday evening at the UW–Madison commencement ceremony for doctoral, master of fine arts and health professions graduates. Basic sciences master’s degrees were conferred during the Saturday commencement ceremony at Camp Randall stadium.

MD Graduate Recognition Ceremony: reflections on hard-earned lessons

Azure skies reflected by a shimmering Lake Mendota greeted MD graduates at the Memorial Union at UW–Madison. The class of 2024 began their studies at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, an event that shaped the start of their medical education. In his remarks to graduates, Dean Robert N. Golden, MD, highlighted their unprecedented experience and how it shaped their learning.

“You are a very special class,” Golden said. “Most of you started your training here during the very dark, early days of the COVID pandemic. You have emerged from that fiery crucible with strong mettle, and hopefully with several lessons learned beyond what is taught in the classroom or through our formal curriculum.”

“COVID taught all of us about the need to continue to integrate medicine and public health. COVID also demonstrated the wisdom of societal investments in research, which made it possible for us to very quickly develop safe and effective vaccines and treatments. Beyond COVID, we see this every day in other vitally important areas, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurosciences and autoimmune disorders.”

Golden described how pandemic insights directly translate to other contemporary health issues, such as the importance of communication and the impact of health disparities in underserved communities. These lessons continue to inform emerging issues, such as use of artificial intelligence in medicine, health impacts of climate change, and the emergence of new pathogens.

“Can the medical community lead the way in creating widespread recognition that access to good health and health care is a fundamental human right rather than a commodity?” he asked. “Now, the answers to these enormous important questions and challenges are in your hands.”

Student-selected faculty speaker Maxfield Flynn, MD, PhD, is an assistant professor of medicine heavily involved in medical education and mentorship. Flynn described how teaching medical students has challenged him to improve himself, his medical knowledge, and his approach to teaching and mentoring.

“You’ve asked me provocative questions and sometimes proposed no-win impossible scenarios,” Flynn said. “You’ve made me re-evaluate my thoughts about social justice, stigma in medicine, different learning abilities, and our ways of teaching. You challenge me to try new things and think new thoughts. It is frustrating and difficult and inspiring all at the same time. Thank you.”

Flynn shared three tenets he has learned through teaching — the value of humility, curiosity and kindness — and reflected on each.

“Our training as physicians is very long, and during that duration of time, it is inevitable that we all will go through trials and difficulties,” he said. “And yet through some of the hardest times, I have seen you offer comfort and support to each other. I’ve seen you express incredible kindness and empathy to our patients. And I love to be around it and to be a part of your learning because you remind me of what it takes to be a great physician.”

The event’s student speaker was Joshua Martens, who was chosen by his peers. Martens, who is a native of the Milwaukee suburb Franklin, Wisconsin, earned his undergraduate degree at UW–Madison majoring in neurobiology and kinesiology.

During medical school, Martens was selected for induction into national medical honorary society Alpha Omega Alpha, performed research in interventional and diagnostic radiology, and served as a peer leader and mentor to undergraduates interested in pursuing medicine.

“All of us started our journey to becoming physicians long before we ever arrived at the school,” Martens said. “Some of us dreamed of becoming doctors since we were kids, others discovered our calling on campus, volunteering in clinics, or while working in other professions. Nonetheless, our graduation today represents the culmination of years of tireless work and great sacrifices of time, energy and opportunity. Moreover, we stand on the shoulders of many family members, friends and mentors who sacrificed so much to allow us to succeed.”

Martens told the story of his great-grandfather, who came to the United States from Mexico to work difficult jobs in California, dreaming of opportunities for himself and his future family. In search of a better future, he moved to Illinois to work for a railroad company, where he climbed the ranks to become a leader at work and in his local community. It was there his great-grandfather met his great-grandmother, who had experienced her own hardships. Martens encouraged his peers to look to their ancestors for inspiration.

“There are many who persevered through hardship most of their lives, with only the ability to dream of the promise of our futures,” he said. “I know many of us along our medical journey have been told, whether by ourselves or others, ‘you will never make it,’ ‘the odds are against you,’ ‘consider a different path.’ There have been countless reasons to quit, yet we all stand here today, soon to be doctors, writing another chapter in our genealogical book of resilience and hard work.”

Among the other 172 graduating medical students in the class was Noah Trapp. After attending high school and college in Kansas, Trapp chose to work as a science teacher and eighth-grade baseball coach in the Mississippi Delta, one of the most under-resourced areas in the United States. There he witnessed the inequities his students faced in the classroom, and their struggles as they faced some of the worst health outcomes in the country.

During medical school Trapp participated in the global health program and conducted research to evaluate neurological outcomes in children with perinatal brain injury. He also founded a student interest group in neurology and volunteered with the MEDiC Free Clinics , while in his personal life he and his wife welcomed two children.

Trapp will pursue a residency in pediatric neurology at Mayo Clinic. He said this unique specialty will allow him to continue focusing on children, a passion that was sparked by teaching.

“I will have the opportunity to work with children and help study pediatric brains for the rest of my life, which I’m very excited about,” he said. “I love working with kids and I missed that about my work in the classroom, especially with children with special needs. Now I will get to work with them in the hospital and help them through some of the biggest challenges in their lives… I will always be a teacher at heart, and I can still be a doctor.”

Read more about Noah Trapp

The importance of representation in health care

Aderoju (Addie) Agboola’s journey to becoming a physician assistant began when an assigned reading on Black maternal mortality stopped her in her tracks. She had also struggled to find a health care provider that looked like her — so she decided to become one.

She said she chose to pursue a physician assistant degree because of its versatility and alignment with her interests, from primary care and addiction medicine to neonatal care. She is one of 56 Physician Assistant graduates in the class of 2024.

“Most importantly, when patients who look like me walk into the room, they know that there are things they won’t have to explain because I will understand,” she said. “I chose UW because it was clear to me while filling out the application that they cared about your ‘why.’ One of the most meaningful experiences from my time at [the school] was actually in the classroom. I know how cliche this will sound but my class is excellent in every single way. I have grown more than I have ever expected, I have made friendships that I will hold on to.”

Agboola plans to work at a federally qualified health center to start a career in primary care. She said her goal is to be the type of provider that all patients trust, honoring the individuality that exists for all patients.

“I want to be all the things I looked desperately for in my providers,” Agboola said. “I want to cultivate a space for patients to feel like they matter, to feel that their choices are respected regardless of if they align with mine.”

Read more about Addie Agboola

‘Healing through movement’: a passion for physical therapy

Muzammil (Muzzy) Chaudhry is one of 38 Doctor of Physical Therapy program graduates who will join the health care workforce. Chaudhry was inspired to join the profession because of his passion for empowering patients to heal themselves through movement and reconnect with activities that bring them joy.

Originally from Chicago, Chaudhry earned a bachelor’s degree in human development and family studies at UW–Madison, which provided a strong foundation for building deep relationships with patients and cultivating empathy. He said it also gave him a sense of the incredible support systems at the university, adding that the physical therapy program has introduced him to wonderful faculty and peers and cultivated an amazing learning experience.

“I am passionate about orthopedics and applying psychosocial strategies to health care to optimize patient outcomes,” Chaudhry said. “I chose physical therapy because of our ability to build strong patient connections. The program allows for a variety of extracurricular activities, maintains an amazing core faculty and has small class sizes. All of this makes every student feel valued and allows us to explore different aspects of the profession.”

One of his most meaningful experiences was creating a course called Cultural Humility for Health Equity, which he then offered to all UW School of Medicine and Public Health students. After graduation, Chaudhry is joining Mayo Clinic for an orthopedic residency.

“My dream is to split my time between being an orthopedic clinician and teaching both orthopedics and empathy coursework at a university,” he said. “I am excited to further expand my knowledge of orthopedic conditions and assist in teaching at their DPT program.”

Read more about Muzzy Chaudhry

Class of 2024 by the numbers

• Training in Urban Medicine and Public Health (TRIUMPH) : 13
• Wisconsin Academy for Rural Medicine (WARM) : 28
• Medical Scientist Training Program/MD-PhD (MSTP) : 8
• Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT): 38
• Master of Genetic Counselor Studies (MGCS): 8
• Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS): 56
• Master of Public Health (MPH): 59
• Master of Science in Biotechnology: 26
• Basic sciences graduate students: students completed studies in the school’s 14 graduate programs and 4 affiliated graduate programs

MD graduate photos by Todd Brown and Hallie Funk, SMPH Media Solutions

• Yale Bone Center Faculty
• Yale Diabetes Center Faculty
• Yale Endocrine Neoplasia Clinic Faculty
• Clinical Programs
• Winter 2023
• Spring 2023
• October 2023
• January 2024
• Clinical Track
• Clinical/Research
• Customizing Your Education
• Current Fellows
• Type 1/Childhood-Onset
• Type 2/Adult-Onset
• Bone & Mineral Metabolism
• Clinical Trials

INFORMATION FOR

• Residents & Fellows
• Researchers

Richard Kibbey, MD/PhD

Contact information.

• Office 203.737.4055
• Fax 203.785.3823
• Email [email protected]

Patient Care Locations

• Inpatient Consultations requested by a physician Yale New Haven Hospital 20 York Street New Haven, CT 06510
• Specialty Clinics Yale Health Center 55 Lock Street New Haven, CT 06511

Lab Location

• The Anlyan Center 300 Cedar Street, Ste S 110 New Haven, CT 06519 Appointments : 203.758.7228

Office Location

• The Anlyan Center 300 Cedar Street, Ste S 113 New Haven, CT 06519

Research & Publications

Appointments.

• Cellular & Molecular Physiology
• Endocrinology

Dr. Kibbey obtained his undergraduate degrees in music (B.A.) and an honors degree in biochemistry (B.S.) at Trinity University in San Antonio in 1991. He then obtained his combined M.D. and Ph.D. at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in 2000. His Ph.D. was in Cellular and Molecular Biophysics and involved determining the NMR structure of peptides from the LDL receptor under his mentors Drs. R.G.W. Anderson and L. Gierasch. Subsequently, he went to Yale University in where he was selected for the ABIM short-track in Categorical Internal Medicine. In 2002 he stayed on for his Endocrinology fellowship at Yale and is now board certified in Internal Medicine and Endocrinology. While in his fellowship he worked in the laboratory of Dr. Gerald Shulman on metabolism in the pathophysiology of Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus. Here he identified mitochondrial GTP as a metabolic signal in the mitochondria sensing flux in the pancreatic beta-cell as a crucial component of the signal to secrete insulin. His laboratory also has developed a novel platform using stable isotopes and mass spectrometry named Mass Isotopomer MultiOrdinate Spectral Analysis (MIMOSA) that measures the flow of metabolism inside and between tissues. He is now an Associate Professor in the Departments of Internal Medicine/Endocrinology and Cellular & Molecular Physiology. He continues to see patients at Yale Health and has an independent NIH-supported laboratory doing research on islet and whole body physiology in order to understand/prevent/treat Type-2 diabetes.

Education & Training

• Resident Yale University School of Medicine (2002)
• Intern Yale University School of Medicine (2001)
• MD/PhD University of Texas Southwestern Medical School (2000)
• BS Trinity University (1991)
• BA Trinity University (1991)
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose Chicago, IL, United States 2023 Endocrine Society Annual Meeting
• Tracer Studies Using MIMOSA – A New Window on Quantitative Fluxomics Philadelphia, PA, United States 2023 13CThe Fifth International Workshop in Metabolic Imaging
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose Los Angeles, CA, United States 2023 UCLA Medical School Grand Rounds
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose New York, NY, United States 2023 Columbia University Medical School Grand Rounds
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose Boston, MA, United States 2023 Beth Israel Deaconess
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose Mérida, Yuc., Mexico 2022 Sociedad Mexicana de Nutrición y Endocrinología meeting
• Insights from mass isotopomer flux analyses on glucose sensing Washington, DC, United States 2022 Georgetown University
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose Calgary, AB, Canada 2022 Diabetes Canada Meeting 2022
• How beta-cells sense glucose: Lessons from the Ox and the Caterpillar Indianapolis, IN, United States 2022 Eli Lilly
• How beta-cells sense glucose: Lessons from the Ox and the Caterpillar Baton Rouge, LA, United States 2022 Pennington Biomedical Research Center
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose Copenhagen, Denmark 2022 University of Copenhagen
• How beta-cells sense glucose: Lessons from the Ox and the Caterpillar Atlanta, GA, United States 2022 Emory School of Medicine
• How beta-cells sense glucose: Lessons from the Ox and the Caterpillar Nashville, TN, United States 2022 Vanderbilt University
• How beta-cells sense glucose: Lessons from the Ox and the Caterpillar Ann Arbor, MI, United States 2021 University of Michigan School of Medicine
• How beta-cells sense glucose: Lessons from the Ox and the Caterpillar New York, NY, United States 2021 Weill-Cornell School of Medicine
• Quantitative Flux Mapping with 13C and Integrated Omics Toronto, ON, Canada 2021 SCIEX Thought Leader Series
• Phenomic, transcriptomic, metabolomic, and fluxomic mapping of intermediary metabolism West Haven, CT, United States 2020 Regional Core Facility Tech Forum
• How Pyruvate Kinase Regulates Mitochondria: From Rare disease to Broad Therapeutic Implications Cambridge, MA, United States 2020 Agios Pharmaceuticals
• How beta-cells (really) sense glucose: From mitochondrial GTP to therapy New York, NY, United States 2019 Berrie Center, Columbia University Medical Center
• Mitochondrial GTP: From rare disease, to mitochondrial cycles, to precision metabolism, to diabetes therapy? New York, NY, United States 2019 New York University School of Medicine
• From Precision Metabolism to Diabetes Drug Rockville, MD, United States 2019 National Center for Advancing Translational Science, NCATS
• Oscillatory Mitochondrial Energy Sensing Via ADP Privation: from mitochondrial GTP to beta-cell therapy White Plains, NY, United States 2019 Burke Neurological Institute
• Oscillatory Mitochondrial Energy Sensing Via ADP Privation Palm Springs, CA, United States 2019 FASEB: Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Dynamics in Health, Disease and Disease. Symposium Chair.
• Oscillatory Mitochondrial Energy Sensing Via ADP Privation: from mitochondrial GTP to beta-cell therapy Ithaca, NY, United States 2019 Burke Neurological Institute
• Oscillatory Mitochondrial Energy Sensing Via ADP Privation: from mitochondrial GTP to beta-cell therapy Boston, MA, United States 2019 Joslin/BBDC/U Copenhagen Symposium
• A brief history of mitochondrial metabolism Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, United States 2019 Emerson Collective - Flashtalk
• Beta-cell glucose sensing is encoded in the time domain Montreal, QC, Canada 2018 Montreal Diabetes Research Center
• Non-canonical beta-cell metabolism Orlando, FL, United States 2018 American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions
• Principles and Practice of Mass Isotopomeric MultiOrdinate Spectral Analysis (MIMOSA) to Assess Metabolic Flux Lexington, KY, United States 2018 Resource Center for Stable Isotope-Resolved Metabolomics symposium
• Principles and Practice of Measuring Intracellular Metabolic Flux Cambridge, MA, United States 2018 Decibel Therapeutics
• Perils, Principles and Practice of Measuring Metabolism with Mass Isotopomers for Diabetes Drug Discovery Davis, CA, United States 2018 NIH West Coast Metabolomics Center
• Perils, Principles and Practice of Measuring Metabolism with Mass Isotopomers for Diabetes Drug Discovery Boston, MA, United States 2018 Joslin Diabetes Center
• Perils, Principles and Practice of Measuring Metabolism with Mass Isotopomers for Diabetes Drug Discovery Madison, WI, United States 2018 Keynote Speaker: Morgridge/UW Metabolism Symposium
• Perils, Principles and Practice of Measuring Metabolism with Mass Isotopomers for Diabetes Drug Discovery Salt Lake City, UT, United States 2018 University of Utah
• Developing an integrated high-throughput metabolic flux platform La Jolla Ranch, CA, United States 2017 Pfizer
• Measuring the mitochondrial metabolic rhythms of insulin secretion with mass isotopomers: So What? Boston, MA, United States 2017 Boston University Medical School Grand Rounds
• The Role of the Mitochondrial GTP Cycle Regulating Glucose Homeostasis: Intracellular flux analysis using LC-Ion Mobility-MS Groton, CT, United States 2014 Healthy Aging
• The mitoGTP Circuit: The Metabolic Tachometer of Beta-Cell Mitochondria? New York, NY, United States 2009 Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center

Honors & Recognition

Professional service, departments & organizations.

• ABIM Physician-Scientist Research Pathway
• Cancer Signaling Networks
• Diabetes Center
• Diabetes Research Center
• Fellowship Training
• Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Physiology
• Internal Medicine
• Liver Center
• Molecular Medicine, Pharmacology, and Physiology
• Program in Translational Biomedicine (PTB)
• Yale Cancer Center
• Yale Center for Molecular and Systems Metabolism (YMSM)
• Yale Combined Program in the Biological and Biomedical Sciences (BBS)
• Yale Fibrosis Program
• Yale Medicine
• Yale Ventures