The general stream of the Clinician Scientist Program (CSP) aims to support psychiatry residents in PGY3-4 who are interested in a research career. Early engagement in research activities during psychiatric residency is supported through protected research time, longitudinal research projects, and conference funding. All general stream CSP residents are expected to participate in the CSP seminar series (6 seminars per year), and to present their research at the annual Department of Psychiatry Research Day in June.
Residents who are interested in joining the general stream typically apply to the program during the end of second year or third year of residency. For residents who present their CSP-related research at scientific meetings, reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,500 is available annually.
In order to apply, residents must first identify a supervisor in the Department of Psychiatry who holds an appointment in the School of Graduate Studies, and is willing to commit to supervising a CSP resident during their research training (specifically, during research electives as well as a half-day per week for non-CBD residents). Residents should then work with their supervisor to develop a project plan and research proposal to submit with their application. The CSP Director and Chief Resident can provide suggestions for, and introductions to, potential supervisors.
Each proposed project will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. In general, projects should be data driven, and provide opportunities for residents to develop both research skills (data analysis, REB application), and a track record of productivity (presentations, and publications). See the section “How to Apply” for more details about project requirements. For residents with limited research experience, research electives are encouraged prior to application to CSP.
