The Forgotten Faculty: Challenges for Ph.D.s in Clinical Medical School Departments

The data and discussion contained in this invited paper are based on the opening plenary by the first author whose paper titled “The Status of Ph.D.s in US Medical Schools” was presented at the 3rd national conference of the Association of Psychologists in Academic Health Centers, Minneapolis, MN, May 2007. The significant growth of the number of Ph.D.s in clinical departments is described, as is their distribution. The roles they play; the barriers they face in terms of leadership opportunities, promotion and tenure; and the concerns they voice that are specific to this population are also discussed. Salary differentials between Ph.D.s on main and medical school campuses are provided. Recommendations for future investigation of disparate treatment and for faculty development opportunities specifically aimed at this group are found at the conclusion of the paper.