Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Jacksonville) Program

The two-year Rheumatology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's campus in Jacksonville, Florida, offers a prestigious opportunity to train as a rheumatologist. This fellowship emphasizes both clinical and investigative aspects of rheumatology, equipping fellows with the necessary skills to excel in this specialty. The program has an outstanding reputation, as evidenced by its 100% board pass rate and the universal involvement of fellows in research activities, including publication and presentations at national or international meetings.

This fellowship offers two positions annually starting July 1, 2025, through a highly competitive selection process. Eligible candidates must have completed an accredited internal medicine residency program and possess a valid medical license to practice in the United States. The application process requires submitting a comprehensive packet via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), including a letter of recommendation from the residency program director. Interviews, a critical part of the selection process, typically take place between August and October.

Curriculum

The Rheumatology Fellowship curriculum is designed to provide a blend of hands-on clinical training and research experience. In the first year, fellows primarily engage in outpatient rotations and may select various electives such as clinical neurophysiology, dermatology, and pain medicine clinics. The second year of the program is focused on research, with opportunities to participate in clinical trials and other investigative studies. Fellows also attend numerous departmental conferences and seminars that enhance their learning and integration into the field.

Research Opportunities

Fellowship training includes opportunities to collaborate with some of the leading researchers in rheumatology. Fellows can participate actively in clinical research, contributing to studies that cover a range of rheumatologic conditions, including vasculitis and rheumatoid arthritis. This program not only encourages fellows to develop clinical acumen but also nurtures their interests in advancing rheumatologic science through research.

Training Sites and Facilities

Mayo Clinic offers state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance the fellows' educational experience. The Division of Rheumatology treats over 10,000 patients with a variety of conditions each year, affording fellows extensive exposure to both common and rare diseases. The faculty consists of distinguished consultants who are committed to providing top-tier clinical care as well as mentorship in research endeavors.

Fellow Life

Quality of life and wellness are strongly emphasized in the Fellowship program. Fellows have access to the Bill Hewitt Employee Wellness Center, which offers modern fitness facilities, alongside well-being programs that support mental, emotional, and physical health. The Mayo Fellows Association also provides networking opportunities, social events, and resources tailored for residents and fellows to foster a supportive community.

Visa Sponsorship

The Mayo Clinic actively supports international candidates and offers visa sponsorship for those applying to the Fellowship program. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types for eligible fellows, facilitating their training and educational experiences in the United States.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The selection process for the Rheumatology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic is competitive, which reflects the program's high quality and reputation within the medical community. While the program is open to candidates from various backgrounds, it encourages diversity and inclusion. The training environment is supportive of International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and osteopathic graduates (DOs), enhancing the opportunity for a broad spectrum of applicants to join the ranks of the esteemed fellows.

Alumni and Network

The fellowship's success can be seen through its alumni, many of whom occupy prominent positions in academia and clinical practice around the world. The fellowship promotes an ongoing connection through the Mayo Clinic Alumni Association, which provides alumni with continued professional support and networking opportunities, ensuring that graduates maintain ties to the institution throughout their careers.