StAR Doctor of Medicine (MD) programme

The aim of the Strategic Academic Recruitment (StAR) MD Programme is to accelerate the delivery of innovative, impactful translational research and build on highly skilled clinical expertise to improve modern healthcare issues.

The programme attracts some of the best research talent in Ireland, working across a range of research themes.

About the programme

The StAR MD degree by dissertation is a body of work representing two years of research activity (Doctoral Award NFQ Level 10). To graduate with the MD degree, you must provide evidence of an original contribution to medicine, surgery, psychiatry or medical science.

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How to apply

Applications for 2025 are now closed. The next intake will open in due course.

For further information on the StAR MD programme, please contact us at StARmd@rcsi.com.

Click on the hospital logos below to access more information and specific details.

Hear from past scholars

StAR MD scholars Dr Michelle Casey and Dr Conor Toale describe the exceptional learning environment provided to carry out outstanding research, while also being funded and allowed to grow professionally with support from strong supervisory teams.

Our partners

Opportunities are available for successful candidates to partner with one of the following:

Blackrock Health - Hermitage
Blackrock-Health-Galway
Bons
Bon Secours Hospital Cork logo
ICGP
Mater
St Vincent's Private logo
UPMC SSC logo
Vhi