Tarrant County Medical Examiner Program

The Forensic Pathology Fellowship at the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office is a rigorous and organized educational program that offers comprehensive training for candidates pursuing a career in forensic pathology. This program has been fully accredited by the American Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) since its inception in 2004. The fellowship accommodates one position each year and is structured to promote professional, ethical, and personal development with graded and progressive responsibility during the fellowship year.

During the year of fellowship, trainees are exposed to a diverse array of cases, including but not limited to multiple gunshot wounds, blunt force trauma, sharp force injuries, toxicity deaths (including emerging novel drugs), and suicides. Fellows will gain hands-on experience through participation in death scene investigations, autopsy procedures, and recovery of remains. Furthermore, fellows rotate through specialized Crime, Toxicology, and Anthropology Labs, and they engage in lectures and research activities, including identifying a project that will culminate in a presentation at a national meeting. This multifaceted approach ensures that fellows not only solidify their clinical skills but also engage with the academic side of forensic pathology. 1

Duties and Responsibilities

The fellowship requires the fellow to perform essential functions expected of a forensic pathologist under the guidance of the Chief Medical Examiner. The responsibilities include determining the cause and manner of death for medical examiner cases, directing support staff through inquest duties, conducting external examinations and autopsies, and preparing detailed written reports based on case findings. A minimum of 200 autopsies, off-site scene investigations, regularly scheduled educational sessions, courtroom testimony observations, and forensic laboratory rotations are mandated to fulfill ACGME standards. The program emphasizes attaining experiences in courtroom testimony to further prepare fellows for real-world situations wherein they may need to provide expert testimony.

Requirements for Applicants

To be eligible for the Forensic Pathology Fellowship, applicants must fulfill specific prerequisites. Candidates are required to be pathology residents or hold an M.D. or D.O. degree. Additionally, they must be eligible for a Physician-in-Training (PIT) medical license in Texas and must meet the certification criteria set forth by the American Board of Pathology in Anatomic Pathology. It should be noted that this program does not sponsor visa candidates, which is a critical consideration for international applicants. 1

About the Tarrant County Medical Examiner's District

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office serves an extensive area that includes Tarrant, Denton, Parker, and Johnson counties, catering to a population of approximately 3.5 million residents. The office manages upwards of 2,200 autopsies and conducts around 1,300 external examinations annually. It holds accreditation from the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) and is staffed with a team of 11 full-time Board-Certified Pathologists who average a decade of experience. The office is well-equipped, housing specialized labs including a Human Identification Lab and full-service Toxicology and Drug Chemistry Labs that meet rigorous accreditation standards. This structured environment optimizes the fellow's exposure to high-volume, diverse forensic cases, which substantially enriches their learning experience. 1

Fort Worth, Texas

Fort Worth, known for its vibrant culture and rich history, is the 12th largest city in the United States. The city boasts a variety of attractions such as the historic Stockyards showcasing Texas heritage, the dynamic Sundance Square entertainment district, and numerous museums including the Kimball Art Museum and the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Fort Worth offers a wide selection of exceptional dining experiences and nightlife while being part of a larger metroplex that includes Dallas and various sports venues. The diverse recreational opportunities available across the Metroplex range from nature trails to major league sports, making it a desirable location for fellowship trainees. Furthermore, the region features robust public transportation options, including significant airports that facilitate travel.1

Compensation and Benefits

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner's Office provides fellows with a comprehensive benefits package. This includes health coverage options (medical, dental, and vision), group term life insurance, and long-term disability insurance. Eligible fellows also benefit from flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care reimbursements. Vacation and sick leave are allocated annually, with employees earning 10 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave per year. Additionally, the fellowships offer a competitive salary of approximately $97,850 annually for the 2026-2027 academic year. 1

Application Process

The program participates in the Forensic Pathology Fellowship Match, organized through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). Interested candidates are required to submit a comprehensive application package, including a Curriculum Vitae, personal statement, and three references. This structured application process is crucial to ensure that only the most qualified candidates are selected for this esteemed fellowship opportunity.