Professional Development Bootcamp

Traditionally, surgical residents take one to two dedicated years for research, commonly known as “the lab years.” However, many residents pursue scholarship in nontraditional fields such as biodesign, industry, health services, and education. Therefore, the Department of Surgery has relabeled these years as “Professional Development (PD).”

The PD Bootcamp is an annual seminar program for all department PD residents and postdoctoral fellows. We leverage our institutional expertise in research methodology, quantitative & qualitative methods, information science, and academic leadership to catalyze our learners’ careers toward academic success.

The goal of the Professional Development Boot Camp is to guide residents on a pathway toward academic achievement and leadership. As the residents transition from a clinical environment, this structured curriculum helps create a community of practice toward maximizing scholarship and self-efficacy during their professional development years. 

Part of the StanForward curriculum, PD Bootcamp isn't a standalone program. It is preceded by 3 years of preparation and followed with a monthly seminar series focused on leadership, led by Department Vice Chair for Education Dr. Jim Korndorffer.

Will resume in Fall 2024