Introduction
Unlike most tertiary education, which requires students to submit a dissertation during their final year, medicine only requires students to pass their examination to complete their degree. Despite a medical syllabus consisting of evidence-based medicine, statistical analysis and database searching techniques which could help students to find strong data to support their knowledge in their studies and future career, many students have never written a research paper throughout their education.
Fortunately, in NUIG, medical students are given such an opportunity to produce a research paper during their summer holiday, while some may even carry out their research paper throughout their academic year. For the outgoing and proactive students, you can always liaise with consultants, tutors and lecturers who work in the field of interest to have them become your supervisor to support your research project; while those who are more passive and shy, NUIG provides a platform during semester 1 of each academic year to allow students to apply for a research supervisor. Of course, for those who use this portal, third year and fourth year medical students take priority when matching for a supervisor and you may not get a place if you are in your junior years.
Furthermore, Ireland also provides funding to students who are doing summer research. Students will only need to apply to the Health Research Board (HRB) and fill up relevant credentials and your end of year grades to apply for a sponsorship for your project. NUIG also provides funding to students for their summer research project which you can apply via the school website.
All these precious opportunities provided by NUIG has empowered many students in running their own research project. It has also provide a great learning experience which sharpens students solve skills and communication skills. Some excellent students may even get their written project published in the school journal or even international journals which has impact factors.