National Association of Clinician Scientist Training
Formerly the National Association of MD-PhD Programs (NAMPP)The mission of the National Association of Clinician Scientist Training (NACST) is to advance the education, training, and career development of physician-scientists, with an emphasis on the continuum of clinician scientist training pathways. The Association promotes the development, growth, and support of physician-scientists by representing the interests of programs and trainees engaged in combined clinical and research training, including but not limited to MD-PhD pathways.
NACST advocates for excellence in predoctoral research and clinical training, as well as post-graduate career opportunities, ensuring that physician-scientist trainees are equipped for impactful careers in research and patient care.
Broad Goals
Institutional Capacity
Facilitate and enhance the ability of institutions to improve human health through the education and training of physician-scientists.
Advocacy & Career Opportunities
Advocate for the training of physician-scientists and the creation of attractive career opportunities through national meetings and informational exchange.
Public & Policy Education
Educate the public and policy makers about the contributions of physician-scientists to the discovery and translation of biomedical research into understanding, prevention, and treatment of disease.
Undergraduate Pipeline
Meet the needs of the community of undergraduates who seek to become physician-scientists, supporting robust and diverse applicant pathways into combined-degree training.
Program Development
Foster the development of new training programs and the continuous improvement of existing programs across institutions and specialties.
Because of its shared mission with other national organizations, NACST's activities are intended to complement those of the AAMC GREAT Group MD-PhD and TOPS Sections as well as related groups, while continuing to serve as an independent voice for the broader community of clinician scientist training program directors, administrators, and stakeholders.