If you are an IMG, and looking for an unpaid research position in the United states, this article is a must read.

Tenure of research: 1 year (but can be extended on yearly basis or can also be transferred to another program if you get a residency in match.)

Visa: J1 is an exchange visitor visa on which you can do your research but please note that it is also subject to 212e (Home country requirement).

B1 to J1 change in status is a possibility but a very tedious process and you need to hire your own immigration attorney.(Not advisable)

Tuition Fees: None

Stipend: None (I don’t have any idea about paid research positions)

Cost of living: 1200 to 1500 dollars per month including rent if you are sharing accommodation with other students.

Mostly preferred: students who are already ECFMG certified so that they don’t have to study for step exams during their research work.

Who gets selected: students who have genuine interest in that department or research topic.

Most important documents needed after you get a position: funding letter, bank statement, one year health insurance, negative TB report, COVID vaccination, rest the legal department will let you know.

How to apply ?

I will tell you how I got the position without any contacts.

So first narrow down your department or research field, like I did for hem-onc and

gastro(mostly internal medicine). Then craft a basic email with the following details:

● Who are you?

● Why are you writing this email?

● Why are you interested in applying?

● What are your aspirations while working on that research project?

● What are your future goals? Are you applying for a match cycle?

● Any previous research work? Do you know the basics of clinical research?

● Attach your recent chronological order CV with a photograph.

● Attach letter of intent if possible

You have to send emails to the attendings who are working on that research topic and ask for volunteering yourself to be a part of their team.

You will find emails on the website of the Mayo clinic or university you are applying to.

I personally targeted Mayo clinic Rochester, Arizona, Florida and Harvard University.

Got 3 interviews and was selected finally in the Gastroenterology department at Rochester.

Another way: LinkedIn is a great platform to find recruiters of specific universities and send them direct messages regarding your availability. Twitter too but email is by far the best method.

And keep your calm, you will start getting replies in a week or two and only 10-15% people will reply back to you. Even if they like you and don’t have availability, they will keep your file/CV for next year.

All the best and apply to the department where you really want to work.