Abstract 1773 From the lab bench to bedside, the importance of basic science research in medical education and beyond

A strong foundation in the basic sciences is key to meeting the rigorous requirements to be accepted into medical school. In medical school, these basic sciences are broadened towards an emphasis on medicine, but once in clinical clerkships, can take a backseat to more clinically relevant endeavors. Many medical students come to medical school with experience in research within the basic sciences and with a desire to continue research while pursuing a career in medicine. However, the lack of dedicated time and access to meaningful research opportunities has limited many medical students from continuing to pursue their passion for research. Based on experiences and observations from students, there is a need for understanding how basic science fits into furthering medical education and how it can enhance clinical knowledge to improve patient care. With the help of basic science researchers that are connected to medical schools that understand the need to be adaptive to medical student's schedules, these students can still embrace their passions for research. In addition to having the opportunity to do meaningful research, these students will learn how to apply their medical knowledge to their basic science research in a way that adds to the overall body of knowledge. We aim to stress the importance of basic science during clerkships and beyond medical school in the development of competent clinicians and scientists.