You’ve heard of an MVP—Minimum Viable Product. In business terms, this is the simplest version of something designed to solve a problem, gather feedback, and validate its potential.

But let me introduce you to something even more powerful for your career: the Minimum Viable Brand (MVB).

As a clinical researcher, you’ve built years of expertise in your field. You’ve published papers, analyzed data, and presented findings. But outside your immediate circle of collaborators, how many people truly know about your work? Would your name come to mind when they think of an expert in your field?

Here’s the reality:

It’s not enough to be an expert. You need to be seen as one.

That’s where the concept of a Minimum Viable Brand comes in. Let me be clear—I am not suggesting you become a full-time content creator or influencer. It’s about strategically showcasing your expertise so your name stands out in your field—and beyond.

Why You Need an MVB as a Clinical Researcher

I used to think being good at research was enough. I had a LinkedIn account and a Twitter handle I barely used. Occasionally, I’d share a publication, but I never thought much about building a presence.

Then something unexpected happened.

When I started posting about my work—psoriatic arthritis research, AI in medicine, and even sharing opportunities like research grants—people began reaching out.

At first, it was just a handful of messages. But as I stayed consistent, it became clear: my online presence was creating opportunities I hadn’t even thought possible.

Here’s why an MVB matters:

1. It builds credibility. You become the go-to expert in your niche.
2. It increases your “luck surface area.” When people know what you do and how you can help, opportunities find you—speaking engagements, collaborations, interviews, and even funding.

Imagine sending a cold email to a potential collaborator or industry leader. When they look you up, what do they see? A LinkedIn profile and a PubMed author page? Or a curated online presence that instantly communicates your authority and expertise?

An MVB isn’t about fame. It’s about being visible where it matters.

How to Build Your MVB in Clinical Research

The beauty of an MVB is that it’s simple. You don’t need to churn out endless content or spend all day on social media. You just need to cover the essentials:

1. Define Your Point of View

Start by identifying your niche. What’s your unique angle?

For me, it was personalized medicine in psoriatic arthritis and exploring how AI could transform clinical studies. For you, it might be EHR data, teaching research methods, or a specific disease area.

Establish the value you bring to the table. A clear point of view acts as your personal “brand statement,” helping people immediately understand what you stand for.

2. Polish Your Online Presence

When people look you up, what do they see?

Consistency is key. Across LinkedIn, Twitter, or any other platform you use, ensure:

• You have a high-quality professional headshot.
• A concise, impactful bio that highlights your expertise.
• Links to your key work (publications, presentations, or a simple personal/lab website).

3. Create Content Without Becoming a Creator

I used to cringe at the idea of posting. It felt vulnerable, almost like I was inviting judgment or criticism. I worried my posts wouldn’t add value or might even come across as self-promotional.

My first few LinkedIn posts? Painful to revisit. But I kept going, focusing on providing value to other researchers.

You don’t have to post daily to build authority. I certainly don’t. A realistic starting point might be one post per week or even bi-weekly, focusing on sharing insights or updates relevant to your niche.

Here’s how you can start:

• One long-form podcast or video interview. Share your research story, expertise, and unique insights. This becomes your “anchor content.”
• 10 short-form clips or essays. Use key moments from the interview or standalone insights to demonstrate your expertise. For example, misconceptions in your field or actionable tips for young researchers.

Pro Tip: Ask a friend or colleague to interview you. Questions like “What’s the biggest misconception in your field?” or “What’s the most exciting trend in clinical research?” will give you material for weeks.

4. Build a Simple Landing Page

Use a basic website builder to create a home for your brand. Include:

• Your bio.
• Links to your key publications and talks.
• Your podcast/video interview.
• A place for people to connect with you professionally.

Think of it as your online resume.

Your own university can usually help with this.

I worked with my institution to create a page that highlights our lab and published research. Here’s mine:

Vanderbilt Psoriatic Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis Center

If not, no worries—AI can help. Use AI website builders such as teleport.io or no-code tools like lovable or bolt. You should be able to build a simple webpage in minutes.

If you use Notion, you can create a simple page and hit publish. See a tutorial HERE.

(No excuses now!)

5. Seek Platforms for Interviews

Early in my career, I avoided media invites. They felt like distractions. Now, I see them as opportunities to amplify my work. Platforms like Medscape, VuMedi, or MedNet have allowed me to share my research with wider audiences—and even build collaborations.

(And as a bonus, many of these platforms may pay you for your time.)

If you get an invite, prioritize it. These platforms not only showcase your expertise but also provide financial incentives. It’s a win-win.

Why an MVB Works

I used to think, “Why share my work? Isn’t publishing enough?” (I have close to 100 publications, so I thought being a prolific researcher was sufficient.)

But when people started reaching out—asking about my methods, collaborations, and even mentorship—I realized something:

Sharing isn’t just about you. It’s about creating value for others.

I’ve shared research grants, AI insights, and clinical updates that have helped other researchers. And in return, I’ve been invited to talks, interviews, and new collaborations—all because I put myself out there.

And the good news is—you don’t have to be a full-time creator to build authority.

An MVB allows you to:

• Establish credibility.
• Showcase your expertise without constant content creation.
• Build relationships that open doors to new opportunities.

Fast-Track Your MVB

If this feels overwhelming, here’s a streamlined approach:

1. Spend one day recording a long-form interview about your work.
2. Break it into short clips and posts.
3. Set up a basic landing page to consolidate everything.

You can even outsource some of this to save time. Think of it as investing in your future.

Your Brand Starts Now

Building an MVB is not about fame or vanity.

It’s about reaping tangible professional benefits—like enhanced credibility, new collaboration opportunities, and increased visibility—that can accelerate your career.

It’s about ensuring that when someone searches your name, they find evidence of your expertise and authority.

So, what’s stopping you from starting?

Define your point of view, create one key piece of content about your body of work, and set up a simple landing page. That’s all it takes to transform yourself from a behind-the-scenes researcher to a visible, respected authority in your field.

Your expertise deserves to be seen. Start building your brand today.