R01 Funding for Surgeons; What Are the Key Factors for Success?

Introduction: Recent studies report a decrease in R01 grants awarded to surgeon-scientists compared to nonsurgeons. We determined the key factors associated with a successful R01 grant application for surgeon-scientists.

Methods: Surgeon-scientist principal new investigators (PIs) who applied for an R01 grant during fiscal years (FY) 2018-2023 were identified using an National Institutes of Health internal data platform. Individual and multivariable analyses were performed for gender, degree (medical degree with or without PhD), previous research training grants (F32 and T32), same faculty and clinical training institution, previous mentored funding (K08, K23, and K99), and Hirsch index for awarded and nonawarded PIs. Preliminary analyses were conducted to explore associations between the R01 award and each variable followed by a multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results: Of 310 (35.1%) R01-awarded surgeon PIs, there was no statistical difference in the proportion of awarded men (n = 203, 34.5%) versus women (n = 107, 36.5%) PIs (P = 0.55). The results indicated a strong likelihood of success for PIs with a PhD degree (univariable P = 0.007; odds ratio (OR) = 1.39, P = 0.042 by the logistic model), for those who were previously on an F32 or T32 training grant (P = 0.008; OR = 1.51, P = 0.025), and were previously awarded a mentored-career grant (K08, K23, or K99) (P < 0.0001; OR = 2.72, P < 0.0001). In contrast, remaining at the same organization as their surgical training (P = 0.069; OR = 1.27, P = 0.109), and an h-index ≥40 (P = 0.183; OR = 1.34, P = 0.184) were not indicators of success.

Conclusions: Variables identified for successfully transitioning to independent R01 as first investigator surgeon scientist funding include holding a PhD degree, a previous research training grant, and a previous mentored career award.