ObjectiveTo explore a standardized model for cardiothoracic surgery resident training program based on a combined clinical and research oriented team approach. Methods We conducted this study in a nationally ranked Class AAA hospital among the eleven residents who were accepted into the program. Throughout their training periods, clinical surgical skills were taught by one-on-one mentoring by individually assigned doctoral degree advisors, other attending surgeons and doctoral degree candidates in the program. To foster their scientific curiosity and research skills, regular didactic lectures in basic science and statistical skills by the doctoral thesis advisors, supplemented by monthly journal clubs during which trainees were required to present and discuss a previously assigned topics based on recent clinical cases within the department, thus combining acquisition of clinical skills and theory/research at the same setting. ResultsEleven physicians were selected for this training path. With respect to clinical surgical skills, 4 residents were judged to be sufficient at the end of the first cycle. The other seven residents at the end of the second cycle. One trainee won the third prize in the Medical Skill Competition in the hospital. As for scientific research skills, the team produced 11 scientific articles, one of which was accepted by the annual national conference in cardiothoracic surgery and the first author was invited to present the article. The team submitted four research projects, one won funding at the provincial competition and three within the medical school. ConclusionOur proposed standardized model of cardiothoracic surgery resident training based on a combined clinical and research oriented approach appears to be practical with moderate success. Adaptation of this model by other cardiothoracic surgery training programs in the nation will further attest to its value and functionality.