What does academic productivity really mean—and how is it measured? In this episode of the Definitive Guide to Research series, Grace Xiong, MD, and Andrew Schoenfeld, MD, MSc discuss the key metrics used to evaluate academic success, including publication volume, research impact, authorship, mentorship, and scholarly influence. They also share practical strategies for building a balanced research portfolio, increasing the visibility of your work, negotiating academic expectations, and aligning your research efforts with your long-term career goals.

This video is part of the “NASS' Definitive Guide to Successful Research: Writing, Reviewing, Publishing” series from NASS. New episodes will be released over the coming months, with select content available on YouTube.

Subscribe to NASS Anytime to be the first to access the full course as new sessions are released, including all YouTube content plus exclusive CME education available only through the platform: https://nassanytime.spine.org/

Christopher M. Bono, MD presents the latest episode of NASS' Definitive Guide to Successful Research: What We are Looking for in Reviewers.

Andrew J. Schoenfeld, MD, MSC presents the latest episode of NASS' Definitive Guide to Successful Research: Why are Papers Rejected?

Nathaniel P. Brooks, MD

Karthik H. Madhavan, MD

Stephen Pirris, MD

Ernest E. Braxton, MD, MBA

Michael G. Fehlings MD, PhD, FRCS

Yi Lu, MD PhD

Rajiv Saigal, MD PhD

In this episode, Jamie Wilson, MD, FRCS, MSc interviews Christopher Ahuja, MD, PhD, FRCSC, FAANS and Michael Fehlings, MD, PhD, FRCSC, about the challenges of sustaining a research career alongside a demanding spine surgery practice. They discuss how long timelines for scientific discovery, frequent setbacks in research, and competing clinical responsibilities can contribute to burnout. The conversation highlights strategies for maintaining motivation, including focusing on incremental progress, setting meaningful milestones, and protecting time for work, family, and personal well-being.

Authors Preston Le, MD, and Dustin Anderson, MD, discuss their recent article, "Hip-Spine Syndrome: Diagnostic and Rehabilitation Considerations for Clinicians," with moderator Alex P. Michael, MD.

Read the full article here

Zeeshan Sardar, MD, MSc

Evan K. Johnson, DPT, MS, OCS

Santhosh Tomas, MD

In this episode, Moises Googe, DO interviews Victor Chang, MD and Matthew Karek, MD, about the challenges of mid-career burnout among spine surgeons. They discuss how administrative pressures, shifting career milestones, and competing personal and professional responsibilities can affect fulfillment during this stage of practice. The conversation highlights strategies such as reconnecting with meaningful aspects of patient care, setting new professional goals, and prioritizing personal well-being to sustain a long and satisfying career.

Tobias Mattei, MD

Vinicius Ricieri Ferraz Sr., MD