Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway (SSTP)
Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway (SSTP)
Advancing the Next Generation of Academic Surgeons
The University of Rochester General Surgery Residency Program is proud to participate in the American College of Surgeons Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway (SSTP) pilot program.
The SSTP is a national initiative designed to support medical students and surgical trainees who aspire to careers as exceptional surgeons and independent investigators. The pathway provides a structured framework that integrates clinical training, research development, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities throughout residency.
By participating in the SSTP, the University of Rochester School of Medicine is committed to fostering the next generation of leaders in surgical research, innovation, and academic medicine.
The Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway supports residents as they build careers in surgical research and academic medicine.
Why a Surgeon-Scientist Pathway?
Surgeon-scientists play a critical role in advancing patient care through discovery, innovation, and translational research. However, the increasing complexity of modern research has made it more challenging to balance rigorous surgical training with meaningful scientific development.
The ACS Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway was created to address this challenge through a longitudinal approach that allows residents to develop as both surgeons and researchers simultaneously. The program provides sustained mentorship, dedicated research training, and continued scholarly engagement throughout residency.
Why Rochester?
The University of Rochester School of Medicine provides an exceptional environment for aspiring surgeon-scientists, combining rigorous clinical training with access to a vibrant and growing research community. The Department of Surgery is committed to advancing discovery, innovation, and translational science through a broad portfolio of basic, translational, clinical, outcomes, and health services research programs.
Research opportunities include:
- Basic and translational cancer research
- Transplant immunology and systems biology
- Cardiovascular and vascular biology
- Surgical outcomes and health services research
- Clinical trials and implementation science
- Supportive care and quality-of-life research
- Exercise physiology and rehabilitation science
- Surgical innovation and value-based care
The Department of Surgery's research enterprise includes specialized centers, laboratories, and collaborative programs focused on advancing patient care through scientific discovery. These include the Center for Tumor Immunology Research, Surgical Value Incubator, Cardiovascular Engineering Lab, HERO Lab, and numerous investigator-led research programs.
Further strengthening these opportunities, the Department recently established the Division of Health Services Research (HSR), led by Fergal Fleming, MD, MPH, FRCSI, FACS. Building on the success of the Surgical Health Outcomes Research Enterprise (SHORE), the division serves as a hub for health services research, education, and mentorship, providing additional opportunities for residents interested in outcomes research, healthcare quality, value-based care, and health policy.
Through the ACS Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway, residents can leverage these resources while developing the skills necessary to become independent investigators, academic leaders, and innovators in surgery. Faculty mentorship, research infrastructure, and interdisciplinary collaboration enable trainees to pursue meaningful scientific questions while maintaining excellence in surgical training.
Who Should Consider the SSTP?
The pathway is intended for applicants who have demonstrated a strong commitment to research and academic medicine. Previous research experience is valued, but equally important is a genuine commitment to integrating scientific inquiry into a future career in surgery. Ideal candidates may include:
Research Foundation
Applicants with research experience
Basic science, translational, clinical, outcomes, and health services research experiences can all provide a strong foundation for the pathway.
Academic Focus
Future academic surgical leaders
The program is designed for individuals seeking to lead investigator-driven research programs and contribute to academic surgery.
Career Development
NIH-focused investigators
Medical students, MD/PhD graduates, and trainees aspiring to competitive research funding and independent investigation are encouraged to explore the SSTP.
Program Structure
The ACS SSTP integrates clinical education, dedicated research experience, mentorship, and individualized career development. Residents work closely with faculty leadership to create plans that align with their research interests and long-term goals.
Junior Resident Years
TWO YEARS
- Emphasis on clinical training
- Create a mentorship team
- Participate in laboratory meetings
- Develop and submit a funding proposal
- Complete Responsible Conduct in Research training
Research Years
TWO TO FOUR YEARS
- Full-time research experience
- Optional MS, MPH, or PhD training
- Publish and present research
- Present at local and national meetings
Senior Resident Years
THREE YEARS
- Resume intensive clinical training
- Maintain research engagement with mentors
- Receive support for research continuity
- Prepare competitive K or R NIH award submissions
Commitment to Research Excellence
URochester Medicine has long supported resident participation in research and academic scholarship. Through the Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway, the Department of Surgery is further strengthening its commitment to developing future leaders in surgical science.
Faculty mentorship, research infrastructure, and interdisciplinary collaboration give residents the opportunity to pursue meaningful scientific questions while maintaining excellence in surgical training.
Applying to the Pathway
Applicants interested in the Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway should indicate their interest during the residency application and interview process. The NRMP track number is 1511440C1.
Candidates will have opportunities to discuss their research background, career goals, and mentorship needs with program leadership and faculty investigators. Additional application details and recruitment information will be available with each residency recruitment cycle.
To learn more about the national ACS Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway initiative, visit the ACS Surgeon-Scientist Training Pathway website.
Shape the future of surgery through discovery, innovation, and leadership.
Join University of Rochester Medicine and become part of the next generation of surgeon-scientists.
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