Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Rochester) Program

The Aerospace Medicine Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's campus in Rochester, Minnesota, is a rigorous two-year program designed to transform experienced clinicians into adept leaders in both the clinical and research sectors of aerospace medicine. This specialty area focuses on the interplay between human physiology and the challenges posed by aviation and space flight environments. The fellowship emphasizes preventive medicine and encompasses critical areas such as the health management of aerospace personnel, passenger safety, and the evaluation of human factors and organizational aspects within aerospace settings.

As part of the fellowship, participants will engage in a variety of training activities, including interpreting and conducting aeromedical research, promoting operational safety, and preventing mishaps. The program is structured such that the ideal candidate possesses significant prior experience in aerospace and exhibits a high level of clinical skill and independence.1

Curriculum

The Aerospace Medicine Fellowship curriculum begins with an intensive orientation summer at Mayo Clinic, fulfilling clinical time prerequisites before embarking on online academic training through the University of Minnesota School of Public Health. Fellows pursue a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree while receiving full stipend and benefits, with tuition costs covered by the Mayo Clinic. Beyond online coursework, the curriculum includes specialized rotations at Mayo Clinic in Rochester and at its other campuses, ensuring exposure to various essential clinical areas related to aerospace medicine.

Flight training is incorporated to teach fellows the fundamental principles of flight and how aviation impacts human health. The fellowship encourages fellows to seek involvement in space research and operations, often allowing participation in projects at facilities like the Johnson Space Center, subject to administrative approval. The MPH program includes coursework focusing on public health and epidemiology, complemented by clinical applications of this training in aerospace medicine contexts.3

Clinical Training and Research

Clinical training focuses on the primary areas of aerospace medicine, emphasizing disorders associated with aviation environments and the systems that enhance human performance in these contexts. Clinical objectives include managing aeromedical FAA certification for pilots, refining communication skills, and developing competencies in aerospace occupational health. Research is a vital component of the fellowship, with fellows expected to initiate and complete a publishable research project during their training.2

Application Process and Competitiveness

The fellowship only offers one position per year through a competitive selection process. Candidates must have completed an M.D. or D.O. program and a three-year residency in an ABMS-recognized specialty, and be either board-certified or board-eligible. Previous experience in aerospace medicine, aeromedical operations, or related fields is strongly favored. The program encourages candidates to have a consistent and clear career trajectory that includes a focus on aerospace medicine. Special application materials, including a letter of recommendation from a residency program director, are also required for applicants. It is important to note that this fellowship is not intended for first-time exposure to aerospace medicine, making it suitable for those with substantial prior experience in the field.4

Visa Support

The Aerospace Medicine Fellowship program provides visa support for international fellows. Typically, the program sponsors J-1 and H-1B visas, allowing qualified foreign medical graduates to participate fully in the fellowship training while complying with U.S. immigration laws.1

Department and Faculty

The fellowship faculty comprises experts in public health, occupational medicine, and aviation medicine, who offer both clinical practice and educational supervision. Each fellow is paired with an adviser who assists with career guidance, educational customization, and support throughout the program. The faculty also encourages participation in seminars and discussions with visiting professors, fostering an enriching educational environment that emphasizes growth and professional development in aerospace medicine.5