New Perspectives: ABMS Scholars Enjoying Their Projects and Partnerships
By ABR Associate Director of Communications Rodney Campbell
April 2026;19(2):8
Several months into their terms as ABMS Scholars, the two residents and fellow sponsored by the ABR have learned about the program, started their projects, and worked with peers from several other Member Boards.
They recently shared their thoughts about the program’s benefits.
Applications are being accepted for the next Scholars class. Information is available on the ABMS’ website.
Abdullah Alshreef, PhD, MS, MSc
Medical physics resident
Loma Linda University Medical Center
Research project: Enhancing Clinical Readiness and Board Exam Preparation through Virtual Education Resources for Medical Physics
“I’ve gained a clearer sense of how certification and learning methods can continue to improve. By seeing how different specialties design assessments and use data to guide decisions, I’ve been able to identify approaches that strengthen fairness, relevance, and educational impact. Our monthly meetings (with other Scholars) have helped me think more critically about how learning is structured and how certification can better reflect real clinical practice and evolving professional expectations. In addition, I’ve developed practical skills in analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data, which has improved the way I evaluate evidence and draw meaningful insights for my project.”
Joseph Lee, MD
Diagnostic radiology fellow
Virginia Commonwealth University Health System
Research project: Agentic AI Platform to Enhance Radiology Oral Board Preparation and Certification Readiness
“My experience with the program has been very positive. While we have faced some challenges with our project, I have learned a great deal in the process, especially from others in the program. Even though we are at different institutions, we run into similar obstacles, and the monthly sessions are an excellent way to get insight and ideas for how to work through those challenges. Everyone at the ABMS has been extremely supportive and professional, and I find the environment of the meetings and other interactions to be collegial and friendly.”
Radiation oncology resident
Northwell Health Cancer Institute
Research project: Evaluating and Enhancing Systemic Therapy Education in Radiation Oncology Residency Programs
“My experience has been incredibly meaningful. Being part of a cohort that includes individuals at different stages of their careers — including program directors and senior leaders — has been especially valuable. It has given me perspective beyond my current level of training and helped me think more broadly about systems-level change in medical education. The discussions during our monthly meetings have pushed me to think more critically about assessment, curriculum gaps, and how certification standards intersect with real-world clinical practice. I have also appreciated the collaborative and supportive environment fostered by the ABMS team. Learning alongside colleagues from different specialties has highlighted shared challenges in training and certification, while also exposing me to innovative approaches that can be adapted within radiation oncology. Overall, the program has strengthened both my research skills and my broader understanding of educational leadership.”
