Rutgers Health/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School Program

The Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism Fellowship Program at Rutgers Health/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School offers a two-year ACGME-accredited curriculum designed to train competent and compassionate endocrinologists. The program provides extensive clinical exposure and training in managing a diverse patient population with endocrine disorders, while also fostering research opportunities in basic and clinical science.

Program Structure

Beginning July 1st each year, the fellowship accommodates four fellows, ensuring that responsibilities are shared according to each fellow's experience level. The training focuses on various endocrine diseases such as diabetes, obesity, adrenal and pituitary disorders, and metabolic issues, emphasizing both inpatient and outpatient care settings. Fellows are closely supervised and mentored by highly dedicated faculty members, allowing for an integrated learning experience that combines clinical practice and academic research.3

Curriculum and Training

The training program consists of 24 months divided into progressively advancing levels of competency-based objectives, encompassing medical knowledge, skills, and clinical practice. The educational approach includes regular conferences featuring journal clubs, research presentations, case management discussions, and tumor boards focused on both neurosurgery and endocrine surgery. This varied curriculum helps fellows build a comprehensive understanding of both the art and science of medicine.2

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to participate in both laboratory-based and clinical research projects. Research opportunities are available in collaboration with the department's faculty involved in areas such as osteoporosis, diabetes, and endocrine malignancies. The program aims to prepare fellows for academic careers while providing them with the necessary skills to conduct impactful research.3

Clinical Training Sites

Training occurs primarily at the Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, recognized for delivering patient-centered care. The facility offers comprehensive services, including multidisciplinary teams for complex surgeries (e.g., cardiovascular, kidney, pancreas, and stem cell transplants), along with outpatient experiences at the Rutgers Health faculty practice. The fellows gain exposure to specialized endocrinology clinics, including osteoporosis, transgender health, and comprehensive thyroid clinics.2

Unique Aspects of the Program

The fellowship incorporates multiple learning modalities, including clinical training, didactic teaching, and research proposal opportunities. Fellows maintain a continuity clinic, providing them with a chance to manage their case load and establish long-term patient relationships. The program emphasizes the importance of interprofessional collaboration, allowing fellows to work alongside various specialties in managing complex endocrine cases.1

Competitiveness

The fellowship is considered highly competitive, welcoming applications from U.S. and international medical graduates alike. An ECFMG certificate is required for foreign graduates, alongside completion of an internal medicine residency.3

Special Application Requirements

Application through ERAS is mandatory, with prerequisites such as at least three letters of recommendation (including one from the residency program director), USMLE or COMLEX transcripts, personal statement, medical school transcript, MSPE, and a photo, if possible.3

Visa Support

The program provides visa support for qualified international medical graduates. It sponsors J-1 and H-1B visa types, facilitating residency applications for foreign physicians, which reflects the program’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse training environment.3

Salaries and Benefits

The program offers a comprehensive benefits package that aligns with those provided across graduate medical education programs at the medical school. Full details are maintained and updated by the Office of Graduate Medical Education, ensuring that fellows receive competitive salaries and health benefits throughout their training.3