University of California (San Diego) Medical Center Program

The UC San Diego Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship program is dedicated to producing academic physician leaders proficient in various aspects of gynecologic oncology. The primary aim is to impart exemplary clinical skills while offering unique educational opportunities to its fellows.

Fellowship Structure

The fellowship is structured as a three-year program, divided into specially designed rotations. The first year emphasizes mentored research, allowing fellows to actively engage in the CREST (Clinical Research Enhancement through Supplemental Training) program, which complements their research experience and provides extensive coursework in clinical research methodologies. This early integration with research enhances fellows' chances to pursue advanced degrees if they choose to do so.

Following the first year, fellows alternate between clinical duties at UC San Diego and Kaiser Permanente San Diego in three-month blocks. This rotational structure enriches fellows' exposure to various clinical settings and therapeutic approaches, integrating both surgical and non-surgical management strategies for patients.

Training Sites

The fellowship features access to the UC San Diego Jacobs Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente San Diego. The UC San Diego site is affiliated with the Rebecca and John Moores UCSD Comprehensive Cancer Center, the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center in the region. This center not only provides advanced imaging and radiation oncology services but also houses various research initiatives spanning multiple cancer research disciplines, including metastasis and tumor biology.

Kaiser Permanente offers a high volume of clinical cases, particularly in surgical gynecologic oncology, allowing fellows to accumulate substantial hands-on experience while navigating the collaborative care models required in the setting.

Clinical Experience

Fellows participate in comprehensive clinical experiences at both training sites. Students learn to manage advanced surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive surgeries and HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy), alongside chemotherapy and precision medicine therapies. The opportunity to engage in clinical trials is a significant element of the program, as fellows help recruit and counsel patients for trials that contribute to evolving cancer care.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to conduct independent research with guidance from accomplished faculty, including Dr. David Schlaepfer and Dr. Dwayne Stupack, who lead groundbreaking research in gynecologic oncology. This robust research mentorship fosters a multifaceted understanding of cancer biology and clinical applications, ensuring that fellows are equipped to contribute innovative solutions to the field.

Education and Conferences

Education is a cornerstone of the fellowship, with a structured didactic lecture series and multiple educational activities across different formats. Weekly treatment planning conferences, journal clubs, and multidisciplinary tumor boards create an ongoing learning environment. The CREST program further enhances the educational landscape, offering structured courses that delve into various research methodologies, fostering the development of critical analysis skills and design principles vital for a successful academic career.

Application and Competitiveness

The fellowship accepts applicants from US or Canadian-accredited residency programs. Selection is competitive, emphasizing a high standard of prior clinical training. Applications are submitted via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS), and the fellowship participates in the National Residency Matching Program. Notably, the program welcomes applications from both DO and IMG candidates, fostering a diverse application pool.

Visa Support

The UC San Diego Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship provides visa sponsorship for qualified international applicants. The program is able to sponsor J-1 and H-1B visa types, ensuring support for international medical graduates seeking training in the United States.

Unique Aspects

The combination of a comprehensive cancer center and a large HMO provides a unique dual approach to training, blending clinical care with rigorous research activities. The extensive network and resources available at UC San Diego enrich the fellows' training experience, allowing them to be at the forefront of gynecologic oncology advances.