[Research in education programs]

Postgraduate medical training is intended to give competence in a specific field of medicine. Postgraduate programs should therefore be designed to offer the appropriate opportunities for the acquisition of specific knowledge and skills required for expertise in that particular medical or surgical specialty. The trained physician should not only be able to practice his specialty, but also have a deep understanding of the fundamental knowledge involved and convey this experience to others. Scientific curiosity, critical reasoning, persistence, and the ability to work in a team are important qualities that should be developed during post graduate training. Due to its requirements and methods, research clearly emerges as an important tool in promoting the timely achievement of these main objectives. All departments should be involved in basic or clinical research, and this work should be part of the postgraduate program. Finally, research activities should be appropriately valorized in the overall appreciation of the trainee's curriculum.