STAR-PSTP
UCLA STAR Physician-Scientist Training Program
Future independent investigators starting in today's competitive climate need rigorous scientific training. Our program aims to develop physician scientists to bridge the gap between clinical questions and scientific inquiry. We provide an environment that facilitates probing the underpinnings of clinical observations in basic, translational, or clinical research settings, and translate findings on disease mechanisms and patterns into improvements in the detection, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease.
The UCLA Internal Medicine Residency Program is known for its outstanding clinical training, and combined with STAR-PSTP, our residents receive unparalleled training that further distinguishes them among highly accomplished peers. Our internationally-renowned faculty perform cutting-edge research in basic, translational, clinical, implementation, and health services sciences and relish the opportunity to train the next generation of physician scientists. Trainees have a wide array of options for mentors in any of these areas and receive multi-level mentorship and guidance for subspecialty training and beyond.

Building on the successes of UCLA's STAR program, which focuses on developing physician scientists in fellowship and beyond, the STAR-PSTP provides opportunities for maintaining research exposure during residency training for internal medicine residents (PGY1-2/3) who have experience in research and are committed to a career as a physician-scientist.
The track provides the following:
- Direct career mentorship by STAR Program Leadership Guaranteed fast-tracking into STAR Program/fellowship with appropriate milestones met
- Near-peer mentorship with senior fellows in the STAR Program
- Guidance in identifying potential research mentors
- Invitation to participate in career development seminars and social events provided by the STAR Program
STAR-PSTP Resources
Program Contacts
Nadia Barreda
Student Affairs Officer
630 Charles E. Young Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
P: 424.369.1603
E: [email protected]
Alexa Gatti
Student Affairs Officer
630 Charles E. Young Dr.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
P: 424.369.1603
E: [email protected]
Quen J. Cheng, MD PhD
Co-Director
200 Medical Plaza
Los Angeles, CA 90095
P: 310.206.7663
E:[email protected]
Amy L. Cummings, MD PhD
Co-Director
2020 Santa Monica Blvd, 6th Floor
Santa Monica, CA 90404
P: 310.829.5471
E: [email protected]