Building a research career in general internal medicine - A perspective from young investigators

To survive academically in a clinician-investigator track, junior research faculty must develop a focused, independent program of investigation that addresses important questions with creative, valid methodologies. Appreciation for the rules of the game, good mentorship, and effective grant- writing skills are invaluable in making the transition from new faculty to established investigator. Although we strongly believe that young researchers should study the issues they passionately care about, we hope that knowledge of these guidelines will make it easier for them to balance practicality with idealism.