That creation of systems and an environment in which scientific questioning is honored and encouraged led in the 1980s to UNM becoming a pioneer in instituting a problem-based learning curriculum. A further dose of reality was introduced in having the students work with established physicians throughout the state. From the beginning, the school relied on combining a clinical setting with a spirit of scientific inquiry. Through the years, that collaboration between clinical physicians and scientific exploration has led to important partnerships with the national scientific laboratories within the state, as well as to research programs that target the specific needs of the state's highly diverse populations. The value they add to the health of New Mexicans is what makes the center a unique resource within the state.
Effective research needs a solid platform of support to thrive.
The VRI recognizes that there are a number of intangibles that must be in place if the spirit of research is to grow, from a strong internal ethics program, to a streamlined grant-writing process, to a solid network of new and established scientists talking together. I want someone to know that if he or she joins this University, they are joining a strong network of support. It is here that the unique role of the clinical physician can come into play. His or her ability to see the inherent possibilities in basic research can be translated into new treatments to help patients, and has always been a powerful dynamic in the growth of research at the Health Sciences Center. We've come to appreciate the unique healthcare needs of each of our populations.