The Cost of a Competitive Edge: Financial Barriers in Research Years for Residency Applicants

Dedicated research years are increasingly common among applicants to competitive residency programs, yet often impose significant financial burden due to undercompensated positions. This study quantifies the gap between research fellow compensation and the cost of living during these research years.

A 17-question survey was distributed via email and social media to first year integrated plastic and reconstructive surgery residents who reported completing a research year, along with individuals who previously completed or are currently undergoing a publicly available plastic surgery research fellowship. The survey elicited information regarding training stage, compensation, location, relocation needs, insurance, and funding for publications and conferences during dedicated research years. Living costs during research years were determined using the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Living Wage Calculator, and compensation was compared to living, minimum, and poverty wages. Data were aggregated by region and to ensure anonymity.

Of the 110 individuals surveyed, 55% responded, representing 19 states and 45 zip codes. Annual research fellow compensation ranged from $0 to $75,000, with a median compensation of $24,000, and a mean compensation of deficit of $15,529 below the living wage. In addition, 10% lacked insurance, 28% earned below the poverty line, 51% below minimum wage, and 95% below the living wage.

Most research fellows receive compensation below the living wage. To ensure equitable access to research and socioeconomic diversity in the competitive surgical specialties, properly funded research fellowships are necessary to alleviate financial barriers.