Any NP's doing research too?

[TRR8021]

Hello everyone! Currently I'm a junior level BSN student and I already have a BA in biology. Recently, my interests have changed slightly. I was planning on getting an MSN after the BSN to become a family NP, but now I'm also interested in basic science research, specifically, immunology. I'm also interested in researching women's health issues like vulvodynia. Is there a way to combine a nursing background with this kind of research? I was thinking of getting a PhD in immunology after the MSN, but if I have to eventually get a DNP to practice as an NP, is this worth it? Also, will a nursing PhD prepare me for this kind of research? My other thought is medical school? Any thoughts about this?? My goal is to have a clinical practice but also to do some original research.

[BBFRN, BSN, PhD]

I have lots of professors who are NPs that got their PhDs, but they did so before the DNP was an option. Many of them still practice as NPs, teach, and perform research. Most of the research questions they ask are related to the patient populations they are treating in clinical practice. Obtaining your NP, and working in an immunology office may be a way to get your foot in the door in this particular area of practice. That may offer you the experience in this area that would facilitate your future research.