When considering international research, one is confronted with experiences in both developed and developing countries that are quit different than doing work within one’s own country. Often investigators are interested in doing international research, but do not realize that the rules and medical systems are different. Misperceptions can taint, and in fact destroy research.

It makes little sense with the system we have now, where all new international research starts anew, without using learning from the many mistakes we have all made. International research needs to “stand on the shoulders of those who went before,” as through connection and dialogue we can help others not make the same mistakes as we. We need to move from International research to Global research. Global research is about communication. Medical students are important conduits for global health research sharing.