From Dissertation to Original Paper: A Journey Towards Quality and Standards in Research

By Khalid Masud Gondal

Affiliations

1. Senior Vice President, College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan, Kararchi, Pakistan

doi: 10.29271/jcpsp.2024.11.1269

Since its inception in 1962, the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) has played a pivotal role in advancing medical education and research in Pakistan. Over the years, CPSP has consistently evolved its approach, culminating in a significant shift from traditional dissertations to original research papers for postgraduate residents—a move that highlights its commitment to high-quality and impactful research.

The transition from dissertation to original paper is a reflection of CPSP’s broader vision for research and education. Traditionally, dissertations served as a crucial component of post- graduate medical training, allowing residents to delve deeply into a specific area of interest. However, as the field of medical science has evolved, so too have the expectations and demands placed upon medical professionals. In this context, CPSP recognised the need to adapt its approach to research training. The decision to emphasise original research papers over dissertations was not merely a change in format but a deliberate strategy to align with international standards and promote a culture of innovation and inquiry among its graduates.

A key milestone in this journey was the establishment of the Research Evaluation Unit at the CPSP headquarters in 2007. This unit was later expanded to regional centres, with the specific aim of facilitating and supporting residents in their research endeavours. The unit conducts essential training in research methodology, biostatistics, and dissertation writing, equipping residents with the skills necessary to produce high- quality original research.

This comprehensive support system has been instrumental in the successful transition from dissertation-based research to the requirement for original research papers.

The shift from dissertation to original paper is not merely a change in format but represents a broader transformation in CPSP’s research philosophy. Original research papers require candidates to contribute new knowledge to the medical field, fostering innovation and critical thinking. This evolution is aligned with global best practices and ensures that CPSP graduates are not only proficient in clinical skills but also capable of conducting meaningful and relevant research.

The success of CPSP’s research initiatives is evident in the achievements of its flagship periodical, the Journal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (JCPSP). With an impact factor achieved 15 years ago, JCPSP has maintained its status among the top medical journals in the country. This reflects the high standards of research being produced by CPSP fellows and residents, driven by the institution’s rigorous focus on quality and originality.

Looking forward, CPSP continues to innovate, with plans to launch a separate journal dedicated to postgraduate residents. This new platform will further encourage and showcase the original research conducted within the institution, reinforcing CPSP’s role as a leader in medical research and education.

In conclusion, the journey from dissertation to original research paper at CPSP marks a significant step towards elevating the quality and standards of medical research in Pakistan. Through its comprehensive support structures, including the Research Evaluation Unit, CPSP ensures that its graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the global medical community. By setting these high standards, CPSP not only enhances the academic rigour of its programmes but also continues to lead the way in medical education and research excellence, both nationally and internationally.