Emory University School of Medicine Program

The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program at Emory University School of Medicine is committed to reducing the impact of infectious diseases on children's health through a combination of robust research initiatives and comprehensive clinical training. The program is particularly focused on fostering the next generation of pediatric clinicians and researchers dedicated to optimizing care for children with infectious diseases.

Program Mission and Vision

The program's vision is to translate knowledge into actionable care for children, which allows them to thrive despite the challenges posed by infectious diseases. The mission encompasses collaborative efforts with institutions such as Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reflecting a commitment to advancing pediatric care on both local and global scales 1.

Fellowship Program Overview

This fellowship is a three-year program structured to prepare trainees for expertise in pediatric infectious diseases through diverse clinical and research experiences. Trainees are equipped for various career paths in academia, clinical practice, or research, depending on their individual interests. Each fellow participates actively in clinical consultations, engaging with patients across various care contexts and conditions 4.

Unique Aspects of the Fellowship

A standout feature of this fellowship is its emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration. Fellows have access to extensive clinical research networks that include the Emory Vaccine Center, the Rollins School of Public Health, and partnerships with the CDC. Research areas span prevention, vaccination strategies, and addressing antimicrobial resistance, among others 13.

Curriculum and Rotations

The training curriculum covers broad exposure to inpatient and outpatient pediatric infectious diseases, fostering long-term continuity of care. Fellows rotate through various clinics, including the Ponce Pediatric/Adolescent Infectious Diseases Clinic, the pediatric immunology clinic, and the Emory TravelWell clinic. The primary facility for inpatient training is the 255-bed Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston, with additional opportunities at other facilities within the healthcare system 45.

Research Opportunities

The program promotes a research-driven environment where fellows are encouraged to engage in mentored clinical and basic science research. Faculty support fellows in identifying and planning research projects, guiding them toward acquiring external funding. Collaborative opportunities extend to the adult infectious diseases division, public health initiatives, and various research networks such as the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network 25.

Visa Support and Sponsorship

The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program at Emory University provides comprehensive visa support for international medical graduates. The program can sponsor J-1 and H-1B visas, accommodating applicants from diverse backgrounds, including international and DO graduates. This inclusiveness reflects a commitment to fostering a diverse training environment that enriches the program.

Competitiveness of the Program

The fellowship is highly competitive, attracting a wide range of applicants, including DO and international medical graduates (IMGs). Candidates must have completed two or three years of ACGME-approved pediatric residency training before enrollment. The application process considers applications through the NRMP pediatric subspecialty match, emphasizing a thorough vetting process 4.

Application Requirements

The application process for the fellowship is conducted via ERAS during the July application cycle. Significant aspects of eligibility include completion of at least two years of pediatrics residency training. Candidates with a maximum of two failed Step exams may still be considered, depending on their overall application strength 4.

Current Fellows and Graduates

Fellows enrolled in the program have diverse educational backgrounds, showcasing a range of interests from infectious disease management to teaching and vaccine research. Alumni of this program have successfully transitioned into impactful careers in academia, public health, and clinical practice.

Clinical Services Offered

The clinical services provided by the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Division include consultations for various infectious diseases, comprehensive management for children living with HIV, and specialized treatment for serious infections, including those caused by unusual organisms. The program actively engages in research and education initiatives aimed at fostering community health 6.

Research Teams and Collaborations

Fellows have opportunities to engage in various research initiatives across multiple teams, focusing on vital health concerns such as respiratory viral infections, HIV translational research, and immunology in pediatric care. The program is positioned well for conducting impactful clinical research due to its collaborations with esteemed institutions and research networks 23.