The Procedural Surgeon Scientist Task Force (PSSTF) was launched in May 2024 by Yale School of Medicine Dean Dr. Nancy Brown to address the challenges faced by research faculty in technical specialties, such as surgery and procedural medicine. Led by Dr. Nita Ahuja, Chair of Surgery, the task force aimed to develop sustainable strategies to support these high-value faculty members, whose unique skill sets and research contributions are vital but often constrained by high clinical demands and limited protected research time.
Proceduralist- and surgeon-scientists (PSS) play a crucial role in advancing translational research and innovation. However, this cohort, which constitutes a small fraction of academic physicians nationally, is dwindling. At Yale, fewer than 50 faculty members dedicate more than 50% of their time to research in these fields. Challenges such as salary gaps, opportunity costs, and concerns about balancing clinical excellence with extended research time underscore the need for targeted solutions.
Over six months, the PSSTF convened 10 meetings, facilitated discussions at the Dean’s retreat, and conducted faculty surveys to refine its recommendations. Early outcomes include proposed strategies to clarify promotion benchmarks, integrate mentorship into faculty evaluations, and establish research clusters to enhance collaboration. Additionally, the task force is advocating for institutional initiatives like competitive salary guardrails and leadership structures dedicated to managing the unique needs of proceduralist-scientists.
These efforts mark an essential step toward sustaining and expanding the contributions of procedural surgeon-scientists, ensuring their continued impact on science and medicine while supporting their professional growth at Yale.
The PSSTF plans to finalize its proposal in early 2025.
Members:
- Nita Ahuja MD MBA Chair of Surgery (Leader)
- Nil Addy PhD Assistant Dean for Innovation and Diversity; Director of Scientist Diversity & Inclusion
- Keith Choate MD Associate Dean For Physician-scientist Development; Chair of Dermatology
- Peter Gruber MD PhD Vice Chair of Research, Department of Surgery
- Murat Gunel MD Chair of Neurosurgery
- Isaac Kim MD PhD MBA Chair of Urology
- Harriet Kluger MD Vice Chair for Collaborative Research, Internal Medicine
- Alexandra Lansky MD Director, Yale Cardiovascular Research Group; Director, Heart & Vascular Research Program
- Lisa Leffert MD Chair of Anesthesiology
- Jason Pober Bayer, Professor of Translational Medicine and Professor of Immunobiology, Pathology and Dermatology
- Lauren Sansing MD Vice-Chair of Academic and Faculty Affairs, Neurology
- Hugh Taylor MD Chair of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences