Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Program

The Rutgers Health/New Jersey Medical School Infectious Disease Fellowship Program seeks to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the field of infectious diseases, integrating comprehensive clinical training with innovative research and patient care. The Division of Infectious Diseases is dedicated to enhancing patient health through quality care, groundbreaking research, and education.

Program Mission

The mission of the program is to be an infectious disease center of excellence recognized by patients for its superior quality of care. The program emphasizes creating a humanistic and culturally sensitive healthcare environment, accommodating a diverse patient population with various backgrounds and health challenges related to infectious diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and antimicrobial resistance.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum is split into two years, incorporating clinical rotations and research opportunities at multiple key facilities. In the first year, fellows spend three months focused on infectious disease consults at University Hospital and the VA Medical Center, alongside additional rotations at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center and Jersey City Medical Center. Each fellow also engages in microbiology training and infection control initiatives.

The second-year curriculum allows for further specialization, with fellows rotating through transplant infectious disease services and engaging in elective rotations focused on research and patient care.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows rotate through various renowned facilities:

• University Hospital: A principal teaching hospital, it serves as a Level 1 Trauma Center for Northern New Jersey.
• Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center: Known for its advanced cardiac and transplant care, it features significant programs in humanitarian outreach.
• Jersey City Medical Center: A culturally diverse hospital noted for its exemplary LGBTQ healthcare and emergency services.
• VA Medical Center: Provides rich educational experiences focused on antibiotic stewardship, HCV care, and various other medical specialties.

Research Opportunities

The program is bolstered by the Ruy V. Lourenco Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Pathogens, enhancing interdisciplinary research endeavors. Fellows are expected to formulate research projects that contribute to advancing knowledge in infectious diseases, culminating in opportunities to present at conferences and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.

Highlighted Research Projects

Recent research projects include:

• Investigating epidemiological outcomes of multi-drug resistant infections.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) against HIV in urban populations.
• Studying the interactions between HIV and TB, and developing strategies for integrative care in co-infected patients.

Faculty and Mentorship

The program is staffed by distinguished faculty specializing in infectious diseases, contributing a wealth of expertise in areas like HIV, tuberculosis, and antibiotic resistance. Mentorship is a pivotal aspect of the fellowship, providing fellows guidance from experienced clinicians and researchers, fostering both professional and personal development.

Application Requirements

To apply for the program, applicants must hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residency and possess a valid ECFMG certificate if applicable. Competitive candidates typically also need:

• Three letters of recommendation.
• A completed application through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS).
• An interview scheduled between August and October, which includes participation in weekly Infectious Disease Grand Rounds.

Visa Support

The program is open to international medical graduates who require visa sponsorship. Specifically, it supports J-1 Exchange Visitor visas through the ECFMG. This facilitates the inclusion of diverse international candidates in the fellowship.

Competitiveness

The program is highly competitive, favoring residents from MD and DO backgrounds as well as international medical graduates. Candidates who demonstrate a strong background in internal medicine, research interests in infectious diseases, and relevant clinical experiences are encouraged to apply.

Living in Newark

Newark, New Jersey’s largest city, offers a rich urban experience. Ideally located just 13 miles from Midtown Manhattan, it features vibrant cultural offerings, dining, and entertainment options, making it an attractive destination for fellows. Local attractions include the Newark Museum, Branch Brook Park, and the NJ Performing Arts Center, enhancing the overall fellowship experience.