Research in academic colon and rectal surgery: Keys to success

In the current medical climate, there is increased pressure on colon and rectal surgeons to generate clinical revenue and decreased availability of time and resources to do research. For faculty who want to pursue research as part of an academic career, this article reviews some of the issues involved. The first half of the article discusses key issues in choosing the right job, such as institutional/departmental support and resources. The second half of the article discusses what is needed to make a research program successful, including funding mechanisms, mentors, collaborators, and the different requirements for basic science versus clinic research.