At KU Otolaryngology, we reject the reductionist research paradigm where the learner engages solely in mindless data entry or formulaic work.

Our process begins with targeted research mentorship by faculty, meaningful questions, and the development and application of novel mechanisms with which to find the answers.

We expect KU Otolaryngology trainees will come away from research experiences with the ability to develop a hypothesis, successfully write an IRB, database construction and analysis, perform basic statistical analysis, and effectively give an "elevator pitch."

We work closely with trainees to develop their scientific writing capabilities, including how to identify appropriate venues for their work. Typical trainee research projects involve clinical and surgical outcomes, global health, population health, health informatics and medical education projects.

We also recognize that learning is a lifelong endeavor. We actively seek to engage all faculty in meaningful research as with our trainees. Our Department is currently analyzing the benefits and impacts of:

• Formal mentorship program pairing faculty and residents based on personality metrics
• Active engagement with the KUMC ENT medical student interest group
• Contemporizing the resident selection criteria and review process to reduce bias and better identify future leaders in the field
• Social media in otolaryngology (Follow us: Instagram @ku_ent, Twitter @KU_ENT, Facebook @kuotolaryngology and @KUENTClinicalResearch)

Awards and Grants

Our department won a first-round Education Innovation Grant from the Society of University Otolaryngologists to evaluate the effectiveness of interactive multimedia educational modalities for early trainees in otolaryngology.

Additionally, Dr. Jennifer Villwock was awarded grant funding to study the impact of a "Personality-Based Curriculum for Professional Development and Mentorship" at the medical student level. Dr. Carrie Francis has received funding to investigate "Competency in Performing a Basic Head & Neck Exam".

To learn more about opportunities for medical students, check out our webpage for Medical Students.