Distinction in Research: Mentor Guidelines

Icahn School of Medicine offers various programs to encourage students' participation in research studies and provide them with the opportunity to learn how to conduct an original research study. For many students, this is their first step to becoming an independent investigator. Some programs enable students to take ownership of a project and to develop their critical thinking skills and creativity. Throughout the course of these programs, students receive instruction on how to:

1. Identify a scientific question and develop a hypothesis
2. Formulate the specific aim(s)
3. Design a research plan
4. Analyze data
5. Write up their findings

Requirements for graduation with Distinction in Research

In order to be eligible for graduation with Distinction in Research, students must:

1. Be in good academic standing at the School of Medicine.
2. Publish a first author manuscript on an original research study in a peer-reviewed journal and submit a completed application, including a copy of the manuscript, to the Medical Student Research Office by March 1 of the fourth year. Review articles and case reports do not qualify.
3. Submit a letter from the mentor endorsing the submission and supporting the student's application for Distinction in Research.

Or:

Students must:

1. Submit a manuscript on the research project to the Medical Student Research Office by January 1 of the fourth year if the student’s manuscript has not yet been accepted for publication. An ad hoc Distinction in Review committee will make the decision as to whether it is of publishable quality and qualifies the student for graduation with Distinction in Research. If this option is chosen, the student will be asked to suggest the names of 4 or 5 potential reviewers who have agreed to serve on the ad hoc committee. Reviewers should be familiar with the field, but not associated with the project.
2. Submit a letter from the mentor endorsing the submission and supporting the student's application for Distinction in Research.

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