Listen Now:
Eva Feldman, MD, PhD, joins us this week to examine recent research on individuals in academic medicine who felt unprepared for leadership responsibilities, and she helps us explore ways to better prepare faculty for success in those positions.
With Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor, Dr. Feldman is the James W. Albers Distinguished University Professor and Russell N. DeJong Professor of Neurology. She also serves as Professor of Neurosurgery and is the Director of the NeuroNetwork for Emerging Therapies and the ALS Center of Excellence at Michigan Medicine.
“I would say that my main takeaway is this: if you are a mid-level professional aspiring to a leadership position, seek a mentor and sponsor immediately, and ensure you are trained to be ready for that role,” Dr. Feldman told us.
The article she co-authored, titled “Leadership Experiences and Perceptions of Mid-Career to Senior Clinician-Scientists: A Qualitative Exploration,” highlighted key leadership challenges and opportunities that we explore in-depth with Dr. Feldman in this interview.
You can learn more about the report here.
The need for structured leadership training and continued mentorship emerged as a theme throughout this discussion. We also explored the common phenomenon of “accidental leaders” in academic medicine, those who find themselves in leadership positions without prior intention or training.
Upon listening to Dr. Feldman, it is clear that leadership development should be an institutional priority, and we must do more to help create a supportive, learning environment for aspiring leaders.