Young academicians starting in today's competitive environment need rigorous scientific training. Our program aims to develop physician-scientists to bridge the gap between clinical questions and scientific inquiry. We provide an environment that facilitates probing the underpinnings of clinical observations in basic, translational, or clinical research settings, and translate findings on disease mechanisms and patterns into improvements in the detection, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.

The UCLA internal medicine residency program is known for its outstanding clinical training, and combined with research exposure in the PSTP track, our residents receive unparalleled training that sets them on a successful trajectory to be independent clinician investigators.

Our internationally renowned scientists and physician-scientists perform cutting-edge research in basic, translational, and clinical sciences. Faculty welcome the opportunity to train the next generation of physician-scientists. Trainees have a wide array of options for mentors in any of these areas, and receive multi-level mentorship and guidance for subspecialty training and beyond.

 

UCLA ProSTAR Physician-Scientist Training Program

Doctors looking at Microscope

Building on the successes of UCLA's STAR program, which focuses on developing physician-scientists in fellowship, the ProSTAR/PSTP program provides opportunities for maintaining research exposure during residency training for internal medicine residents (PGY1-3) who have experience in research and are committed to a career as a physician-scientist.

The track provides the following:

  • Assignment to partner with a senior fellow in the Specialty Training and Advanced Research (STAR) Program for peer career guidance
  • Direct career mentorship with the Directors or Associate Directors of the STAR Program
  • Guidance in identifying potential research mentors
  • Assistance in applying for the STAR Program at the level of fellowship
  • Invitation to participate in career development seminars and social events provided by the STAR Program. The majority of these activities will occur during PGY 2-3 years.

ProSTAR Resources

Life in Los Angeles

UCLA CTSI

UCLA GME

UCLA STAR Program

Program Contacts

Nadia Barreda

Program Administrator

1100 Glendon Ave, Suite 900
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Phone: 310.794.8224 
Email: [email protected]

Olujimi Ajijola MD PhD

Co-Director

100 Medical Plaza Dr, 6th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90095
Phone: 310.206.6433 
Email: [email protected]

Amy L. Cummings, MD PhD

Co-Director

2020 Santa Monica Blvd, 6th Floor
Santa Monica, CA 90404
Phone: 310.829.5471 
Email: [email protected]