McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University Program

The Cytopathology Fellowship at McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University offers two ACGME-accredited fellowship positions annually, emphasizing a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to cytopathology training. The program, located within the Department of Pathology at the Feinberg School of Medicine, is committed to providing fellows with a high-quality educational experience through hands-on training and academic development.

Curriculum and Training Objectives

The program's aims include a robust curriculum that facilitates the development of essential cytopathologic skills. This includes instruction in cytomorphologic diagnostic skills, medical and scientific knowledge, technical competencies, and lab management experiences. In addition, fellows learn to utilize various ancillary studies such as immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and molecular pathology to enhance diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making 1.

Fellows are encouraged to participate in research projects, contributing to the advancement of the field by preparing abstracts for national meetings and manuscripts for peer-reviewed journal publications. The program emphasizes the development of teaching and presentation skills through participation in interdepartmental conferences and in educational activities for residents and medical students.

Clinical Experience and Rotations

The clinical experience is enriched by a diverse volume of specimens processed by the cytopathology division, which handles approximately 40,000 cases annually—including 25,000 gynecologic and 15,000 non-gynecologic samples. The training also includes experience with fine-needle aspirates from various organs, and regular exposure to interventional radiology, bronchoscopy, and gastroenterological procedures 1.

Unique aspects of the program include the opportunity for fellows to perform ultrasound-guided biopsies, particularly in the head and neck region, as well as core needle biopsies. The program fosters a collaborative atmosphere, incorporating various emerging technologies in cytopathology, such as liquid-based cytology and automation techniques.

Research Opportunities

The program is affiliated with Northwestern University's Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, a leading NCI-designated facility. This affiliation provides fellows access to a wide range of interesting cases and offers opportunities for collaborative research in conjunction with a variety of pathology subspecialities 1.

Eligibility and Application Process

To apply for the fellowship, candidates must have completed training in anatomic pathology or have met the qualifications for board eligibility in anatomic pathology/clinical pathology. The application process requires applicants to submit a comprehensive application package, including a CV, a cover letter summarizing their interest and background in cytopathology, and at least three letters of recommendation 1.

Interviews are conducted in January and February of the application year, allowing selected candidates to engage with faculty and current fellows. The stipends offered to fellows are in line with their level of training during their fellowship year.

Visa Sponsorship and Support

The program offers visa support for international medical graduates. Specifically, the program is capable of sponsoring J-1 visas for eligible candidates seeking fellowship training in cytopathology.

Competitiveness of the Program

The Cytopathology Fellowship at McGaw Medical Center is considered to be highly competitive. The program welcomes applicants from both MD and DO backgrounds and seeks candidates with strong scholarly and clinical interests in cytopathology.

Additional Information

The McGaw Medical Center provides fellows with diverse and engaging clinical experiences, and is located in the heart of Chicago, allowing fellows to experience a vibrant urban environment. The fellowship experience is designed to develop well-rounded, competent cytopathologists prepared for leadership roles in their future careers 1.