By Jenny Long Diaz (MP3), Rebecca Hamlin (MP4), and Grace Mosley (MS2)

Women made up 38% of MD/PhD students nationwide in 2014, a figure that has plateaued over the past 10 years. In the most recent application cycle, the percentage of female applicants was even lower than that of matriculants. It is easy to speculate that fewer women than men are applying to MD/PhD programs because of the long time commitment or prioritization of work-life balance and family. However, to date no data has been published on women’s actual motivations for choosing another career or program over the MD/PhD track. In addition, researchers have not yet explored the role of mentorship and implicit bias in this gender disparity. 

We are developing a new research study to address these unanswered questions. By examining medical school admissions data and surveying MD/PhD students, we will shed light on how women’s experiences and values shape their interest in MD/PhD programs. In a small pilot survey of undergraduates, we asked students if anyone had encouraged or discouraged them from applying to MD/PhD programs. The results, shown below, already suggest a gender disparity. We hope the data we generate will suggest key changes in mentoring and policy that may help close the gender gap.

This research project is part of an initiative to support and advocate for women in the MD/PhD program. If you are interested in participating in this initiative, please email Jenny at jennifer.e.l.diaz@gmail.com.