As an IMG or USMLE aspirant, you know Letters of Recommendation (LORs) are critical. But here’s a tricky question:

Should you invest your limited time in a research project or observership to secure the most impactful LOR?

Let’s examine the difference and, based on real NRMP data, what program directors (PDs) prefer.

What’s the Core Difference Between a Research LOR and an Observership LOR?

• An observership LOR results from shadowing a physician. It shows exposure to U.S. clinical settings but not involvement.
• A research LOR, especially from a U.S.-based physician, is based on your active contribution: literature review, data analysis, writing, and more.

Program directors know the difference between passive observation and intellectual engagement.

Which LOR Demonstrates You’re Residency-Ready?

According to the 2023 NRMP Program Director Survey:

• Letters of Recommendation were rated the #2 most important factor for interview selection across specialties.
• For IMGs, research experience—especially with publications and U.S.-based mentors—was ranked much higher than shadowing.

Why? Because research proves:

• Critical thinking
• Medical writing
• Teamwork with U.S. professionals
• Initiative and long-term commitment

In contrast, observership LORs often describe soft skills—“enthusiastic,” “punctual,” but not impactful.

Can a Research LOR Improve My Match Odds?

Yes. Especially in competitive specialties, research experience, and authentic LORs are tie-breakers.

Here’s what the NRMP data shows:

• In Internal Medicine, 64% of matched IMGs had research experience.
• In Neurology, 73% of matched applicants had at least one publication.
• For competitive specialties like Dermatology or Radiology, 100% of matched candidates had multiple publications and U.S.-based LORs.

A research-based LOR gives you something observerships can’t: proof you added value to academic medicine.

What’s the Ideal Strategy to Secure a Strong Research LOR?

Join a structured research program where:

• You work with U.S. physicians
• You gain hands-on research experience (case reports, abstracts, literature reviews)
• You receive a certified LOR based on real contributions

Get a U.S.-Based Research LOR That Counts

Want to boost your match chances with a recognized research LOR?

Join the MD Research Program today:

• Earn a Certificate in Clinical Research
• Collaborate with top U.S. mentors
• Receive a strong LOR that shows your real value, not just shadowing

[Click here to apply now] and build a residency-winning profile.https://mdresearch.us/landing-page/