Mentorship Through Research: A Novel Approach to Increasing Resident and Medical Student Research Competency Through an Institutional Database

Abstract

Background: We describe a novel research database development project to increase resident and medical student scholarly ability and mentorship skills. We collected data on 3147 facial fractures treated at our institution over a 12-year period. This data was used to publish novel research on multiple types of facial fractures and outcomes.

Methods: We learned about key database aspects that led to its high level of research quality and output volume through over 6 years of database development and expanded research output. A retrospective review was completed to compile the total research produced during this time period.

Results: Research resulted in 20 manuscripts, 17 podium presentations, and 11 posters. 16 medical students, 5 residents and 3 faculty members were authors on at least one project. The average number of published manuscripts was 5.17 overall and 2.9, 7.0, and 14.0 for medical students, residents, and faculty, respectively. Four residents matched into fellowship, 7 medical students matched into residency, and one faculty member was promoted academically.

Conclusions: A database focused on a common and under-researched pathology can result in a high volume of novel research output. Additional program benefits include increased scholarly and mentorship ability in engaged residents and medical students.

Keywords: ACGME; NRMP; database research; resident research; scholarly ability.