Career Intentions in Academic Medicine: Factors Influencing Pursuit and Gender Disparities.

INTRODUCTION

A decline in intentions to pursue careers in academic medicine (AM) has been observed, despite their importance for healthcare systems and scientific advancement. Persistent gender disparities further highlight the need to understand the factors shaping these career choices.

METHODS

This cross-sectional online survey study examined factors associated with AM career intentions among 1,641 french medical residents (63% women) who completed an online survey assessing individual (e.g. self-efficacy, professional interest), contextual (e.g. mentorship, perceived stress), and background variables (e.g. residency year, research experience). Regression analyses identified factors, while mediation and moderation analyses explored gender-related mechanisms.

RESULTS

Consistent with prior research, interest in research, prior research training (MSc/PhD), and mentorship were associated with academic medicine career intentions. Additional factors included work-related expectations (higher work centrality, stimulation, and lower conformity/autonomy) and intrapreneurial self-capital. Gender differences were partly explained by research-related factors (57.06%) and work centrality (15.61%), with no moderating effects observed.

DISCUSSION: Promoting AM careers requires enhancing early research exposure, providing structured mentorship, and fostering organizational flexibility to accommodate diverse professional goals. Strengthening supportive environments (especially for women) by improving mentorship access and workplace safety could sustain engagement and promote equity in academic medicine.