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The Research Training Program at the UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine offers SOPM students an opportunity to expand their academic experience beyond the classroom and become actively engaged in research that bridges science and clinical care.
Open to second- and third-year podiatric medical students through a competitive application process, the RTP provides a one-year structured and mentored research experience designed to foster critical thinking, innovation, and scholarly growth. Students work under the guidance of experienced faculty mentors on projects spanning a variety of health problems relevant to the lower extremities, including diabetic complications prevalent in the Rio Grande Valley and across the United States, as well as innovations in orthopedic biomaterials used in foot and ankle reconstructions.
In addition to conducting research, participants attend a series of seminars led by invited speakers and in-house faculty with research expertise, exposing them to various scientific perspectives. Upon successful completion of the program and presentation of project results at Annual SOPM Research Day, students receive a Certificate of Recognition acknowledging their commitment to research and professional development as future clinician-scientists.