Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Rochester) Program

The Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship at Mayo Clinic's campus in Rochester, Minnesota, is a prestigious three-year training program designed to train future reproductive endocrinologists in clinical practice, research, and surgical techniques. The program aims to produce leaders in reproductive endocrinology and infertility through rigorous training that encompasses various aspects of the field.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum includes comprehensive clinical training, didactic instruction, and research opportunities. In the first year, fellows engage heavily in clinical activities, sharpening their skills in reproductive endocrinology, infertility, and related surgical techniques. The second year emphasizes research, allowing fellows to delve into basic science and clinical research projects, while the third year combines clinical responsibilities with opportunities to specialize in areas such as medical and pediatric endocrinology and genetics. Fellows also have six months of elective time to tailor their training to their interests 1.

Clinical Training

Clinical rotations provide fellows with hands-on experience in various settings, including IVF, reproductive surgery, and clinics dedicated to male and female reproductive health. Specifically in their first year, fellows spend 90% of their time in direct patient care, participating in assisted reproductive technology programs such as IVF and oocyte retrieval. Over the course of the fellowship, fellows will manage an average of 215 retrievals and perform approximately 191 surgeries, contributing substantially to their surgical skillset 4.

Research Opportunities

Mayo Clinic places a strong emphasis on research, offering fellows funding and access to a plethora of resources to support their investigations. The program encourages fellows to pursue projects that advance the field of reproductive endocrinology, with dedicated research time included during the fellowship, ensuring that fellows have ample opportunity to contribute original research to the medical literature 5.

Didactic Training

The didactic component of the fellowship includes courses that cover biostatistics, molecular genetics, and genome biology, ensuring that fellows are well-prepared for the research aspects of their training. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including formal lectures, discussions, and journal clubs, enhancing the learning experience 6.

Surgical Training

Through participation in the Society of Reproductive Surgery (SRS) Surgical Scholars Track, fellows can enhance their surgical skills in minimally invasive reproductive surgery. This structured program aims to develop high levels of competency through continual mentorship and access to surgical education resources 7.

Unique Aspects of the Program

Mayo Clinic is known for its collaborative environment and its commitment to wellness and work-life balance. The program fosters a strong sense of camaraderie among fellows and support staff, which is often highlighted in testimonials from alumni. The flexibility in elective rotations allows fellows to customize their training experience based on personal and career goals 3.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is highly competitive, with one to two positions available per year. Applicants must have completed an accredited residency in obstetrics and gynecology, and must submit extensive documentation, including letters of recommendation and exams scores. Specific application components such as copies of training certificates and a research proposal are also required 2. The program also supports international fellows, and can sponsor J-1 visas for applicants who require visa assistance during their training.

Fellow Life and Wellness

The Mayo Clinic takes the well-being of its fellows seriously, offering various resources for physical and mental health. The Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center provides fitness resources, and various social groups assist fellows in connecting with peers and families, enhancing both personal and professional development 8.

Accreditation and Certification

The Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship at Mayo Clinic is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Upon completion of the program, fellows are eligible to take the subspecialty certification examination in reproductive endocrinology and infertility administered by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology 1.