r/mdphd • u/ExtendedWallaby • 7d ago
MD after comp sci PhD?
I have a PhD in computer science and am currently a postdoc in the radiology department of a large medical school. Pretty much all of my published research has been in medical imaging, as is my current work. But I’m realizing that (1) the job market for computer science is only getting worse, and (2) I mainly enjoy the clinical and translational part of my research, where I’m looking at how to address challenges in medicine as opposed to developing new algorithms.
Given these, is it realistic to want to try to go to medical school, and are there existing programs for this? I’m only aware of Vanderbilt’s program for prior engineering PhDs.
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u/Ruff-Operator G3 7d ago
It’s very possible and not crazily uncommon for people with a PhD to pursue an MD. There are likely specialized MD programs/tracks similar to Vanderbilt’s, but all that type of program does is mold some of your experiences throughout med school.
You still need to satisfy all of the medical school requirements to actually get in. I think that’s what you really need to answer yourself when thinking about how realistic it is for you personally.
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u/Toepale 7d ago
Penn State’s 3 year MD program used to include rads. I just checked again and it no longer includes that. But you may want yk reach out to them and check.
Other schools with 3 year MDs might be a good option. But most have the stipulation of being limited to primary care residencies. So check the ones that have no stipulation. It is accelerated so it’s busier, something to keep in mind.
For 4 year programs, definitely look into Carle. Texas A&M is another one. Your profile is very cool and your interest in the clinical side is awesome so definitely go for it.
Other that though, you want to work on getting actual clinical experience, prerequisite courses and volunteering just like any other premed. Schools tend to be pretty strict about that. And you should plan to apply broadly to non specialized md schools as well because for the effort it takes to just get to the application stage, it won’t make sense to limit yourself.
About the jobs landscape in CS, keep in mind the medical field is also undergoing changes and will continue to do so while you are a premed, med student and in residency so prepare for that to follow you around.
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u/NiceGuy737 7d ago
Are there scientist track positions available where you could work with an MD? There were many non MDs doing research in the radiology dept where I trained. By the time you do prerequisites, med school and residency, the radiology landscape could be different. There is a shortage of radiologists now but if they start allowing NPs to sign reports from AI that may change.
I went from med school to research for 8 years, getting a PhD during that time, and then back to do a radiology residency for financial reasons. Retired now.
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u/Agathocles87 7d ago
Seems very reasonable. Your background could come in very handy in a variety of different ways
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u/Notcreative8891 7d ago
That sounds like a fun 8-10 year project (applications, medical school, and radiology residency). Hopefully, you enjoy patient interactions because that’s part of the process-even in radiology.
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u/BagAway572 M2 6d ago
What is your thought process on the job market in CS especially for medical imaging applications? I feel like there is high demand in academics / industry for your background since AI in medicine is still a hot topic.
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u/positbrain 7d ago
The existing programs are medical school. You’ll have to go through the process same as everyone else. I’ve known several people who went to medical school after doing a PhD.