Growing our own: A regional approach to encourage psychiatric residents to enter research

Objective: This article describes a regional program developed by the Department of Veterans Affairs South Central Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center for training psychiatry residents in research and attracting them to academic careers. Methods: The authors describe a low-cost, innovative program developed to increase the number of psychiatry residents entering postresidency research training fellowships by providing them with mentorship and exposure to seasoned researchers, didactic coursework, and a stipend to cover academic expenses. Results: Over the first 4 years, the program has generated enthusiastic participation among postgraduate year-3 (PGY-3) residents, with a high percentage of underrepresented ethnic minorities and women. Products include publication of four first-authored and two coauthored manuscripts, one first-authored abstract, submission of six additional papers, 28 academic presentations and development of research projects. Half of graduating awardees have gone on to pursue research careers. Conclusion: Our regional approach provides sufficient academic expertise to make residency training feasible in a cost-effective manner.