Indiana University School of Medicine Program

The Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Fellowship at the Indiana University School of Medicine aims to provide extensive training in clinical practice and academic research for physicians aspiring to specialize in the management of pediatric hematologic and oncologic conditions. This fellowship is hosted at Riley Hospital for Children at IU Health, which is renowned for being the only comprehensive children’s hospital in Indiana. The hospital serves not only the state but also bordering regions, reflecting its pivotal role in pediatric medical care across the Midwest.

As part of the fellowship, trainees are exposed to a variety of patient cases, gaining experience in managing complex pediatric illnesses including leukemias, solid tumors, brain tumors, and conditions related to stem cell transplantation. The pediatric hematology/oncology team treats a substantial volume of patients, making it a leading center, with more than 300 new oncology patients treated annually and about 13,000 outpatient visits each year for diverse hematological issues such as sickle cell disease, hemophilia, and bone marrow failure syndromes 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum spans three years, with the first year primarily focused on clinical immersion. Fellows engage in a regimen of core rotations across various services, including hematology inpatient, stem cell transplant, and neuro-oncology, designed to foster proficiency in patient management. The focus on clinical exposure allows fellows to develop essential diagnostic and therapeutic skills early on. In subsequent years, fellows shift their focus toward scholarly activities, emphasizing research while maintaining clinical exposure 4.

Clinical Rotations

During the first year, fellows rotate through core services including solid tumors, outpatient hematology, and leukemia services, with a clear emphasis on gaining hands-on experience in managing acute and chronic conditions. The detailed schedule involves 12 weeks on hematology inpatient service, six weeks of stem cell transplant service, and exposure to outpatient specialty clinics focusing on various hematological disorders 5. Additionally, fellows maintain a continuity clinic where they independently manage a panel of patients, thereby enhancing their autonomous clinical decision-making capabilities.

Training Environment

The training facility includes the Herman B Wells Center for Pediatric Research, which houses a large cadre of faculty researchers dedicated to advancing the understanding and treatment of pediatric diseases. This environment encourages a collaborative approach to research and clinical care, allowing fellows to participate in bench-to-bedside research initiatives and clinical trials 1.

Research Opportunities

Research is a vital component of the fellowship, with various opportunities available, including participation in high-Impact clinical trials as part of the Children’s Oncology Group. The fellowship also encourages fellows to create independent research projects resulting in presentations at national conferences and publications in esteemed journals 7. Opportunities exist to explore diverse research avenues, from basic biological research to clinical application and patient-centered studies, ensuring that fellows can tailor their research focus to their career goals.

Mentorship and Support

Each fellow is paired with a faculty mentor who provides guidance and support throughout the training period. This mentorship structure allows fellows to develop individualized plans for their education and career trajectories, covering aspects from clinical exposure to research project development 8.

Visa Support

The program is open to international applicants and provides visa sponsorship for qualified candidates. This includes support for J-1 and H-1B visa types, ensuring a pathway for non-U.S. medical graduates to participate in the fellowship. This aspect reflects the program’s commitment to inclusivity and broadening its diversity through the integration of international fellows into the training environment.

Competitiveness & Unique Features

The Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at Indiana University is recognized for its competitive nature, attracting residents from diverse backgrounds, including those from osteopathic and international medical schools. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their commitment to pediatric hematology/oncology through previous experiences, research involvement, and strong references. Moreover, the fellowship supports diverse educational experiences, allowing fellows to participate in advanced studies such as master’s degree programs in clinical research or medical education alongside their clinical responsibilities 6. The program is designed to encourage fellows to expand their professional identities within the field, offering comprehensive training tailored to individual interests in pediatric hematology and oncology.

Application Requirements

Applicants are typically required to have completed their residency in Pediatrics prior to applying for the fellowship. The program has specific criteria including acceptable performance on licensure examinations and a demonstrated commitment to pediatric hematology and oncology. Notably, the fellowship highly values applicants who have engaged in significant research or clinical work relevant to their prospective roles, and it is fundamentally aimed to create future leaders in pediatric specialties.