The RSNA-AUR-ARRS introduction to research program for 2nd year radiology residents: Effect on career choice and early academic performance

PURPOSE: To evaluate graduates of the first 5 years of the Introduction to Research program, sponsored by the Radiological Society of North America, Association of University Radiologists, and American Roentgen Ray Society, to determine if they frequently entered and demonstrated early success in academic careers than did participants. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In 1997, the authors surveyed all 396 program participants for the 1990-1995 period and 2,047 nonparticipants who were in the same residencies as the participants during that period. Career plans, research participation, and academic achievements were compared. RESULTS: The survey was completed by 321 participants (81%) and 1,153 nonparticipants (56%). More than a third of participants thought the program had a strong effect on their initial career decision. Forty-one percent of participants who completed training (n = 192) were currently in academia versus 26% of nonparticipants (n = 676; P = .001). Of the 321 participants, 35% believed they would spend most of their careers in academia and 15% thought research would be their major focus versus 19% and 8% for the 1,153 nonparticipants (P < .001). Participants had higher levels of a academic achievement earlier in their careers than did nonparticipants. CONCLUSION: The Introduction to Research program Is encouraging the development of successful research careers. However, the results may be influenced by the self- or departmental selection of participants who were oriented toward research independent of program participation.