University of California (San Diego) Medical Center Program

Overview of the Reproductive Endocrinology Fellowship Training Program

The University of California San Diego (UCSD) Medical Center Program in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) is a specialized fellowship training designed to provide comprehensive education and training in reproductive endocrine and infertility care. This program aims to prepare fellows for leadership roles in clinical settings and academic institutions through a balanced approach between clinical practices, research opportunities, and educational activities.

Mission and Goals

The program is grounded in three core missions: Clinical Care, Research, and Education. The clinical mission focuses on enhancing REI care for women in the UCSD regional network and providing expert consultation for external patients. The research mission seeks to expand the scope of investigations in areas like neuroendocrinology, endometriosis, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) among others. The educational mission is committed to cultivating academic leaders in the REI field.

Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship consists of structured rotations and diverse training experiences, collectively spanning 36 months. Clinical training is concentrated during the first half of the fellowship, while the latter half focuses primarily on research. A multi-disciplinary model is utilized for clinical rotations, emphasizing exposure to various reproductive disorders and assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

Clinical Experience

During the fellowship, participants engage in the evaluation, management, and follow-up of patients experiencing reproductive disorders. Fellows will actively run the Ovulation Induction Clinic, manage surgical procedures, and gain hands-on experience in ART procedures like IVF/ICSI. Training includes a robust focus on both male and female reproductive health under the oversight of seasoned faculty and clinical staff.

Research Opportunities

The research component is comprehensive and nurtures fellows through guidance to identify primary projects and mentors. Fellows engage in significant extramural research possibilities across a breadth of topics. Research may encompass cellular mechanisms, reproductive hormone gene expression, and neuroendocrine interactions, among other cutting-edge issues within reproductive sciences.

Education and Mentorship

The program emphasizes robust educational frameworks, featuring weekly didactics, journal clubs, and Grand Rounds that facilitate continuous learning. CORE educational offerings are enriched by participation in the Clinical Research Enhancement through Supplemental Training (CREST) program, which supports fellows in developing critical research skills.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The UCSD Medical Center recognizes the value of a diverse applicant pool; therefore, it is United States and Canadian educationally friendly. The program also offers visa support and can sponsor various visa types for international applicants, aiming to create an inclusive fellowship environment.

Application Requirements

Eligible candidates must have completed their residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology through an accredited program in the U.S. or Canada. Specific documentation includes a curriculum vitae, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, a medical school transcript, and the Medical Student Performance Evaluation (MSPE). The program follows the National Resident Match Program (NRMP) guidelines for the Match process.

Additional Information

Fellows also benefit from mentoring that fosters growth in research grant writing and career development opportunities through various dedicated programs like the Reproductive Scientist Development Program (RSDP) and Women's Reproductive Health Research (WRHR) Career Development Program.