Specialty:
Clinical biochemical genetics (Medical Related Specialty)ACGME Code:
M014100001Overview of the Program
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia offers two specialized training programs in Clinical Biochemical Genetics: the Clinical Biochemical Genetics Residency and the Medical Biochemical Genetics Fellowship. These programs are designed to create master clinicians, clinical laboratory directors, and physician scientists skilled in managing patients with inborn errors of metabolism. The mission of the program emphasizes excellent training while allowing flexibility for trainees to tailor their educational experiences to meet their specific career goals.
1The training programs benefit from a robust biochemical genetics service that caters to a diverse patient population, ensuring that trainees have comprehensive exposure to various clinical cases. The advanced didactic sessions separate from clinical genetics training further enhance the educational experience.
1Training Structure
Medical Biochemical Genetics Fellowship
This one-year fellowship program is intended for candidates who have completed an ABMGG-accredited Clinical Genetics residency. Typical rotations in this program consist of inpatient and outpatient biochemical genetics, day medicine, and laboratory genetics.
1Fellows receive eight weeks of protected time for scholarly projects and are expected to produce a publication and undertake a quality improvement project by the end of the fellowship.
1Clinical Biochemical Genetics Residency
The two-year residency program is open to candidates with a PhD in biochemistry, chemistry, genetics, or an MD from any institution. Although prior experience in clinical pathology or clinical genetics is preferred for MD candidates, individuals from various backgrounds are welcomed provided they demonstrate a commitment to biochemical genetics.
1International candidates must complete a Foreign Medical Graduate Credentials Review through the ABMGG before application. In the full two-year program, residents also enjoy four months of protected time for scholarly work and test development.
1Curriculum and Rotations
Trainees participate in diverse rotations, such as:
- Amino acid analysis
- Acylcarnitine analysis
- Enzymology
- Laboratory management
- Laboratory Genetics and Genomics
- Acting as the Director of the laboratory
In addition, fellows and residents are encouraged to attend the biochemical genetics clinic and participate in results disclosure.
1Scholarly Activity and Research
The program places significant emphasis on scholarly activity. All trainees are mandated to engage in quality improvement projects and research initiatives. Protected time is allocated for these purposes, allowing residents to balance extensive clinical duties with research involvement. Attendance at academic meetings for presenting their work is strongly encouraged.
1Moreover, trainees have opportunities for collaborative research projects in multiple genetic and biochemical genetics domains.
2Visa Support and Application Requirements
The program provides visa sponsorship opportunities, making it accessible to international medical graduates (IMGs). The program typically supports J-1 and H-1B visa types.
1Specific application requirements include:
- For the Clinical Biochemical Genetics Residency: PhD or MD holders from accredited institutions.
- Foreign applicants must undergo a credentials review.
- For both programs: Completion of USMLE exams (Steps 1, 2, and 3) is necessary for foreign medical graduates.
Competitiveness of the Program
The program is considered to be highly competitive, attracting applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DOs and IMGs. Due to the nurturing yet rigorous training environment, it emphasizes civil rights and inclusivity, encouraging applicants from all demographics to apply.
2Commitment to Health and Safety
Due to the ongoing health crisis, the program mandates that all trainees and workforce members receive COVID-19 vaccinations as part of their employment condition. A similar policy applies to the annual influenza vaccine.
2Website
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Philadelphia, PA
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Living in Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, PA is a vibrant city with a rich historical background and a diverse cultural scene. Here are some aspects to consider when living in Philadelphia for your medical residency program
- Crime Rate and Safety
Philadelphia has some high-crime neighborhoods, so it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. However, the city has been improving its safety measures in recent years. - Fun Activities
Philadelphia offers a wide range of activities, from visiting historical sites like Independence Hall to enjoying the arts and culture in museums and theaters. - Climate
Philadelphia experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Be prepared for snowfall during the winter months. - Races and Population
Philadelphia is a diverse city with a mix of racial and ethnic groups, making it a welcoming and inclusive place to live. - Education
Philadelphia is home to several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continued education and research. - Cost of Living
The cost of living in Philadelphia is moderate compared to other major cities on the East Coast. Housing costs vary depending on the neighborhood. - Proximity to Other Cities
Philadelphia is within driving distance to cities like New York City (around 2 hours) and Washington, D.C. (around 2.5 hours), making it easy to explore other urban centers. - Pros
Rich history, diverse culture, strong healthcare institutions, vibrant arts scene. - Cons
Some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, winters can be cold and snowy.
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