Sudharshan Palaniappa

Society of Research and Academia: Research Skills Academy Lead

Hi everyone! I’m Sudharshan, a third-year medical student who is excited to be running for the position of Research Skills Academy (RSA) Lead.

Research is an integral part of academic development in medical school, and I’ve seen firsthand how intimidating it can be to get started. RSA is a great platform for breaking down these barriers, and I would love to contribute by making research skills accessible to all students.

Over the years, I have gained experience that makes me well-suited for this role. As National Conference Lead in SORA, I managed large-scale events, collaborated with experts, and gained a deep understanding of what makes a successful learning environment. My time as Vice-President (Events) of FoMSF honed my leadership, organization, and event management skills, essential for running RSA smoothly. Additionally, my mandatory military service has taught me to be adaptable, resilient, and calm under pressure - qualities that are crucial for successfully managing and growing RSA.

If elected, my focus will be to:

Enhance the curriculum by inviting experienced speakers who can make research approachable and relatable to students at all levels
Achieve maximum benefit for attendees by having speakers who are willing to take on students for research projects, providing hands-on experience
Reach out to students in early years and encourage them to get involved in research, giving them the tools and confidence to begin their journey

I look forward to bringing my skills, experience, and passion for research to RSA and making it an even greater success!