Proficiency, perceptions, and barriers to research participation among medical undergraduates: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study

Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, practices, and barriers toward research participation among medical undergraduates. Materials and Methods: After a pilot study with 20 participants, a cross-sectional study with 220 medical undergraduate students from all academic years was conducted using a validated digital questionnaire. The demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, research experience, barriers, and facilitators for conduct of research were assessed. Data were collected, analyzed and presented as descriptive statistics, and significance was checked using the Chi-square test. Results: Students scored highest on knowledge of regulatory approval (89.5%) and informed consent (87.3%), while observational study designs were weakest (72.7%). Attitudes were broadly positive, yet only 17.7% had ever taken part in a research project. Time constraints (74.1%), poor awareness of opportunities (70%), and low personal interest (67.7%) were the top barriers cited. Faculty mentorship was identified as the most valuable facilitator. Conclusion: There is a clear and troubling gap between what students know about research, how they look at it, and what they do. Addressing this disparity necessitates intentional and structured efforts at the institutional level, as mere awareness is insufficient to achieve meaningful progress.