Program Information

Program Description

The MD-PhD Program at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (ISMMS) provides a select group of students with the comprehensive training needed to become leaders in academic investigative medicine. The Program offers individualized opportunities in a dynamic research environment, integrated with a nationally recognized and well-rounded medical education. Funded continuously since 1977 by the NIH Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP), our program is committed to excellence in clinician-scientist development.

Program Website: https://icahn.mssm.edu/education/dual-specialty/md-phd

Program Contact

Bianca Taylor, MSEd Administrative Director Email: bianca.taylor-starobin@mssm.edu

Matthew Hersey MSTP Coordinator Email: matthew.hersey@mssm.edu

Program Goals and Objectives

The Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP) advances its mission by preparing a diverse cohort of future clinician-scientists through a rigorous, supportive, and integrated dual-degree program. Graduates are equipped for impactful careers at the interface of biomedical research and clinical care.

Key features of the program include:

  • Integrated Training: Clinical and research education are deliberately interwoven throughout the program, including longitudinal clinical exposure during the PhD years and a structured clinical reentry course prior to returning to full-time medical training.

  • Research Excellence: Trainees gain deep expertise in research design, critical analysis, and translational science across diverse biomedical disciplines.

  • Professional Development: The program includes targeted training in leadership, resilience, mentor-mentee relationships, and professional networking to support success in academia, industry, and beyond.

  • Outcomes: The program supports approximately 96 students annually, with MSTP funding typically covering two years. The dual-degree is completed in an average of 8 years. Graduates frequently secure competitive fellowships, contribute significant scholarship, and match to prestigious residency programs. Over 80% pursue research-intensive careers, many supported by NIH funding and holding academic or institutional leadership roles.

  • Commitment to Individualized Support: The MSTP fosters a safe, accessible, and inclusive environment with robust student support services and structured faculty mentorship training to ensure every trainee thrives.

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