Children's Hospital Los Angeles Program

The Pediatric Hematology-Oncology Fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is renowned for its innovation, mentorship, and comprehensive training. The Cancer and Blood Disease Institute (CBDI) represents the largest pediatric hematology-oncology program in the western United States, continuously recognized by U.S. News and World Report as one of the top 10 children’s hospitals nationally. The CBDI provides robust clinical care and pioneering research opportunities, focusing on the development of physician-investigators for the future of pediatric health. The program is affiliated with the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC) and forms part of the USC-Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, a prestigious National Cancer Institute-designated center.1

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship encompasses three years of training. The first year is primarily focused on clinical skills, while the subsequent two years allow for intensive research training. A comprehensive orientation lays the groundwork in hematology-oncology, combining clinical exposure with practical procedural instruction. Fellows engage in a structured core curriculum tailored to enhance their skills progressively over the fellowship period.1

Research Training Opportunities

During the second and third years, fellows engage in mentored research, contributing to significant projects under renowned faculty. There are abundant research opportunities across various domains, including cancer biology, immunotherapy, and translational medicine, utilizing facilities at the Saban Research Institute and the USC-Norris Cancer Center.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

The CBDI emphasizes a culture of wellness, diversity, and mentorship. There is a dedicated Wellness Committee focusing on creating a supportive environment through initiatives like art in medicine and team-building retreats. Mentorship is integral, with fellows receiving one-on-one guidance from faculty, enabling optimal transition to academic careers.1

Clinical Rotations

The first year includes a series of clinical rotations covering leukemia, lymphoma, hematology, solid tumors, and blood and marrow transplantation. Each rotation facilitates exposure to various patient populations, aided by seasoned faculty supervision.1

Training Sites and Clinical Exposure

Children’s Hospital Los Angeles serves a broad and diverse patient population, offering exposure to a wide array of hematologic and oncologic disorders. As a tertiary and quaternary care center, the program prides itself on its ability to manage complex cases, giving fellows invaluable real-world experience.1

Research Excellence

Fellows participate in a vibrant research community geared towards translating laboratory findings into clinical practice. The CBDI manages over 1,500 clinical trials annually, presenting fellows with substantial opportunities for conducting impactful research alongside experienced investigators.1

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The fellowship program welcomes J-1 and H-1B visa applicants. The program is highly competitive, attracting a diverse range of applicants including U.S. graduates, international medical graduates (IMGs), and osteopathic medical graduates (DOs). A strong focus is placed on academic excellence and research aptitude during the application process.1

Special Application Requirements

Applicants must have completed an ACGME-accredited pediatric residency and successfully taken the USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3. Those graduating from international programs are required to have an ECFMG certificate. The program utilizes the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) for submission of applications, which must be made in accordance with established timelines.1

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship offers a competitive salary with progressive increases during each year of training, alongside benefits that include health insurance, a generous vacation policy, and an annual educational stipend. Fellows also benefit from housing and meal stipends, as well as retirement matching options.