Objective:

To present a research model that emphasizes collaboration and quality research, primarily involving those traditionally underrepresented.

Background:

Medical research has become focused on producing more research to differentiate applicants in the light of a pass/fail STEP 1. Without proper guidance, medical students are left to their own devices. Here we present a systematic approach for medical student involvement in research, stressing collaboration and the acquisition of pivotal research skills.

Design/Methods:

Faculty members at the University of Arizona College of Medicine -Phoenix, Department of Neurology were approached about creating a research coalition. Students were recruited using the school-specific SIGN email list. Agreements about continued participation and expected engagement were agreed upon by all those involved. Students and faculty convened monthly while students had a separate monthly working meeting. Otherwise, all communication was via email and a shared Discord space.

Results:

Project Waterfall Neurology is comprised of twelve students and five faculty members. Out of the students, eleven are women, with six being women of color who have participated since the project inception in April of this year. After just four months post-beginning, students submitted four abstracts to a local meeting in Arizona where all four were accepted for poster presentations. A total of eight abstracts will be submitted to the Annual AAN meeting by Project Waterfall students with no resident involvement. There were obstacles, however, ranging from IRB approval delays, limited systemwide databases, and internal funding opportunities.

Conclusions:

Project Waterfall is a novel approach to medical student research that is gaining traction at our institution. There are currently two iterations in different specialties that have optimized student involvement and taught necessary skills to conduct quality, high-impact research. Future directions will include troubleshooting the difficulties, expanding access to different neurological subspecialties and getting more interested students involved to ultimately create a research education pipeline.