Student Research
Contact Information
Lynne Cleeland
Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs
(608) 265-6045
lmcleela@wisc.edu
Related Information
Resources for Students
Departments, Institutes and Centers
ICTR Research Education and Career Development
Medical Student Research Presentation Travel and Conference Support
About half of the medical students in the MD Program at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health in Madison participate in summer research between their first and second years.
They can choose from a variety of research projects in basic and clinical sciences, health services, public health and global health under the guidance of faculty hailing from our departments, centers and institutes.
Student researchers receive a stipend, and some receive matching funds from a variety of sources. Students also may participate in a research seminar series, clinical research course, grand rounds, journal clubs and clinical shadowing opportunities. Programs are available through other medical institutions, foundations and associations, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Students present their research at an annual forum at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health, and the dean's office provides travel support for national conference presentations.
Summer Research Project Opportunities at the UW School of Medicine and Public Health
- 2002-08 Summer Research Projects (pdf)
- UW Cardiovascular Research Center (pdf)
- UW Department of Psychiatry (pdf)
- UW Department of Surgery (pdf)
Annual Medical Student Research Forum, January 19, 2010
- Intent to Participate Form (Due November 15, 2009)
- Abstract Submission Information for Students (pdf) (Due December 18, 2009)
- Abstract Template (doc)
Shapiro Summer Research Program Information and Applications
- Summer Research FAQs (pdf)
- Summer Research Application Instructions (pdf)
- Shapiro Summer Research Program Application Face Sheet (doc)
- Summer Research Online Application
Year-Long Research Opportunities
Medical Student Research Honors Program
Second-year medical students may apply to a Research Honors Program. Pre-graduation requirements include completing mentored research under the direction of a UW faculty researcher, maintaining a minimum grade point average, completing certain courses, participating in research activities, and submitting a thesis or publishing the research in a peer-reviewed scientific paper. Students present their research findings at local and national meetings.
Research Electives
Third- and fourth-year students may receive credits for certain research electives at UW-Madison or other institutions.

