[Improved information in Medical School may increase recruitment of physician-scientists]

The proportion of physicians undertaking doctoral studies has decreased progressively over the last years both in Sweden and internationally. To counteract this trend, it is important to investigate and improve the recruitment of medical students to research. In the fall of 2012, a questionnaire study investigating interest and involvement in research was conducted among all medical students at Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University in Sweden. The proportion of students involved in research (16 %) was unchanged from a previous similar study in 2006, and participating in a research project was considered to contribute positively to medical studies.  A large number of students (36 %) were interested in conducting research during the semesters, and the main disincentives included lack of time, lack of information, and lack of project and research group.  Research stimulating projects such as the 'Amanuensis Program' had a positive impact on research interest in general. For increased and early recruitment of medical students, efforts should be made to offer improved and regular information about conducting research, to publish available research projects and research groups, and to create and expand research programs for motivated medical students. Along with improved conditions and financial resources, we propose that these measures would help to accommodate the growing need for recruitment of medical students and physicians to research.