Vanderbilt-Meharry James Puckette Carter Summer Scholars' Program

Applications are currently closed.

The Vanderbilt Meharry James Puckette Carter Summer Scholars’ Program (VMJPCSSP) is an eight-week summer experience designed to show scholars the impact of delivering outstanding medical care for children and adults while helping advance care for future generations. We hope this opportunity strengthens your interest in a career in academic medicine, particularly in Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, or Surgery, and encourages you to consider a one year pull out research program during medical school at Vanderbilt University Medical Center or another institution.

The skills and insight you gain through this program will be a meaningful complement to your academic training, and we’re excited to have you join us.

About Dr. James Puckette Carter

Dr. James Puckette Carter joined the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine faculty in 1965, making history as the first African American faculty member in the Department of Pediatrics and the first full time African American faculty member at VUSM. Trained as both a pediatrician and a nutrition scientist, he served Vanderbilt from 1965 to 1976 before continuing his academic career at Tulane University School of Medicine, where he became the inaugural chair of the Department of Nutrition. Learn more about Dr. Carter.

 

Benefits of Engaging in Research

Participating in research during medical school offers meaningful benefits that support both academic growth and career development. Examples include:

  • Enhanced critical thinking and analytical skills. Research strengthens the ability to evaluate evidence, interpret data, and apply scientific literature to clinical decision making and evidence based care.
  • Stronger residency applications. Research experience can help you stand out during the residency selection process by demonstrating intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a commitment to advancing medical knowledge.
  • Exposure to academic medicine. Research provides a closer look at academic careers and can help you explore interests in scholarship, teaching, and discovery.
  • Improved communication skills. Presenting findings and writing abstracts or manuscripts builds clear and effective written and oral communication, skills that are essential for every physician.
  • Contribution to medical knowledge. Research allows students to help answer important clinical and scientific questions, with the potential to shape future practice and improve patient outcomes.

Together, these benefits highlight why research is an important part of medical education and professional preparation, fostering well-rounded physicians equipped for leadership, clinical and academic challenges.

Questions?

For more information, contact Jenny Beck, Sr. Program Manager, at jennifer.c.beck@vumc.org or Dr. Michael DeBaun at m.debaun@vumc.org.