Disease-Oriented Clinical Scholars (DOCS)

The goal of the Disease-Oriented Clinical Scholars (DOCS) Program is to support research excellence in clinical departments at UT Southwestern Medical Center. Candidates are nominated by Chairs of clinical departments: 

Eligibility

Candidates must meet the following criteria: 

  • M.D. and/or Ph.D. degree
  • Commitment to a research career
  • Track record of creativity and excellence in research
  • Appointment as an Assistant Professor (but may apply while a post-doctoral fellow)
  • On faculty at UTSW (i.e., rank of Instructor or higher) or elsewhere for ≤ 3 years

Support

  • Department Chair submits the application (see below for details)
  • Amount of support is flexible, but cannot exceed $1,000,000
  • Maximum duration of award is 4 years
  • Requested salary support should reflect time that is protected for research; not to exceed $100,000 (plus fringe)/year

Selection Process

  • Selection is made by the DOCS Program Selection Committee
  • The progress of each candidate is reviewed by the Committee annually to ensure that:
    • At least 75% of faculty time is devoted to research
    • Candidate is receiving appropriate and sufficient mentoring
    • Research program is progressing at an appropriate pace