For Basic Science Faculty:
* PhD or MD/PhD: A doctoral degree is almost always required, particularly in fields like anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, immunology, etc. An MD/PhD is highly desirable, especially if the teaching involves clinical correlations.
* Postdoctoral experience: Several years of postdoctoral research are usually necessary to demonstrate independent research capabilities and publication record.
* Teaching experience: While not always a prerequisite for initial appointment, teaching experience (e.g., teaching assistant roles, mentoring students) is highly valued and often a requirement for promotion and tenure.
For Clinical Faculty:
* MD or DO: A medical degree is absolutely essential.
* Residency and Fellowship: Completion of a residency program in their specialty is mandatory. Fellowships in subspecialties are often required, especially for senior faculty positions.
* Board Certification: Board certification in their specialty is almost always a requirement, reflecting competency in their area of expertise.
* Clinical Experience: Significant years of clinical experience, demonstrating expertise and judgment in patient care, are crucial.
* Teaching experience: Similar to basic science faculty, teaching experience, including mentoring medical students and residents, is highly valued. This often includes roles as attending physicians, preceptors, or course directors.
For Other Faculty Roles:
* Medical Education Scholars: These roles often require a background in education, such as a Master's degree in medical education or a related field, coupled with significant experience in medical education, curriculum development, and assessment.
* Administrators: These positions typically require a medical degree (MD or DO) and administrative experience, often within a medical setting.
Across all roles:
* Strong Communication Skills: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for effective teaching, mentoring, and collaboration.
* Research Experience (often): Many medical schools emphasize research, so a strong research record is highly advantageous, especially for career advancement.
* Publication Record: Publications in peer-reviewed journals showcasing research findings or educational scholarship are vital for demonstrating expertise.
In short, becoming a medical school teacher is a highly competitive field requiring years of dedicated training, experience, and demonstrated excellence in both medical practice and/or research and teaching. The specific requirements will vary based on the institution, the department, and the specific role.