The Virginia Apgar Scholars Program For the Development of Physician-Scientists

Application to the Apgar Scholars Program does not require previous research experience, but it does require evidence of an interest in and commitment to development as an academic physician-scientist. The Apgar Scholars program does not focus on pre-existing accomplishments; it creates a nurturing mentoring environment for those with a passion for future discovery. The department supports an expanded research horizon: basic science, clinical research, epidemiologic and population research, and health services delivery/policy research—so there is a breadth and depth to the kind of research that you can do at Columbia. During the early residency years we encourage exploration into novel and important unanswered biomedical questions and the identification of mentor(s) appropriate to one’s area of interest.

Since the two categorical tracks have separate rank order lists, an applicant may apply to one of the two tracks or to both tracks. We will not require two separate ERAS applications for the two tracks, but in order to identify yourself as interested in applying for the Apgar Scholars track, you should mention this in your personal statement.

If you are interested in becoming an Apgar scholar you will need to indicate your preference by the program order on your rank order list. Rank the Apgar Scholars Program (Program #1495040C1) above our regular categorical residency program (Program #1495040C0) if you want to be a resident in our program regardless of the track but prefer to be matched as an Apgar scholar.

We encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and candidates who come from disadvantaged economic, social, cultural, or educational backgrounds. The College of Physicians and Surgeons has an Office of Diversity that assists with the mission of recruiting, counseling, and nurturing minority students, and Columbia University maintains an Office of Disability Services.

For more information on the Apgar Scholars Program, contact:

Charles Emala, MD
Henrik H. Bendixen Professor of Anesthesiology and Vice Chair for Research
Department of Anesthesiology
Columbia University
622 West 168th Street
New York, NY 10032
Phone: 212-305-8360
Email: cwe5@cumc.columbia.edu(link sends e-mail)