Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Program

Overview

The Complex General Surgical Oncology Fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is a prestigious two-year program designed for fully trained general surgeons seeking advanced training in surgical oncology. The fellowship aims to provide in-depth experience across various surgical oncology practices while emphasizing multidisciplinary cancer patient care. Since its inception in 1985, the program has produced more than 150 alumni, with over 90 percent of graduates taking full-time academic positions in surgery 1.

Clinical Training

Clinical training within the fellowship follows a mentorship model, structured into one-month rotations. In the first year, fellows engage in broad-based experience, rotating two months each in the Hepatopancreatobiliary, Colorectal, and Gastric/Mixed Tumor Services, and one month each in the Breast, Gynecology, Thoracic, and Head and Neck Services. The final two months include mandatory rotations in Pathology and Radiation Oncology, along with elective time tailored to the fellow's interests 1.

The second year of training is customizable based on individual goals. Required rotations include one month each in Hepatopancreatobiliary, Colorectal, and Gastric/Mixed Tumor Services, but fellows may opt for additional clinical rotations or participate in various research activities, including basic, translational, or clinical research 1.

Education and Conferences

Fellows participate in numerous educational activities, including weekly Grand Rounds, Surgical Oncology Teaching Conferences, and various service-specific conferences that underscore both clinical and research endeavors. Each week, fellows can attend up to 50 different conferences across the center, providing ample learning opportunities and exposure to diverse surgical oncology topics 1.

Research Opportunities

Each fellow discusses research interests at the beginning of the fellowship, allowing them to prepare for clinical research projects during the first year, which can be expanded in the second year. Basic-science research projects are also available, facilitated by active programs across the department and institution 1.

Benefits and Environment

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center is situated on Manhattan's Upper East Side, a neighborhood known for its vibrancy and safety, as well as a variety of activities suited for families. The fellowship offers competitive salaries and benefits packages that align with each fellow's level of training, along with access to numerous nearby childcare facilities and educational institutions 1.

Program Length and Positions

The fellowship program spans two years, with an option for an additional research year. The program accepts eight fellows annually, providing an intimate learning environment where candidates develop their clinical skills and research proficiencies 1.

Eligibility and Application Process

Applicants must have completed an accredited general surgery residency in the US or Canada and be eligible to sit for the American Board of Surgery examination by the start of the fellowship. The program participates in the Society of Surgical Oncology Matching Program, with applications submitted via ERAS, accompanied by necessary documents such as personal statements, letters of recommendation, USMLE scores, and ABSITE scores 1.

Visa Support

The fellowship provides visa sponsorship options for international medical graduates. This support includes J-1 visas, allowing graduates to participate in the program while pursuing advanced training in surgical oncology 1.

Competitiveness and Special Application Requirements

The program is considered highly competitive, particularly for those applicants who are international medical graduates or those bearing DO degrees. Applicants are expected to have strong USMLE scores and a valid academic history without significant failures on exams. Other specific requirements might include prior experience or involvement in relevant research, enhancing overall application strength 1.