University of California (San Francisco) Program

The University of California, San Francisco offers a distinguished fellowship training program in Infectious Diseases, designed to develop leaders in various fields, including research, public health, infection prevention, and medical education. The program emphasizes diversity, aiming to reflect the varied backgrounds of its patient population and enriching perspectives in patient care and research. The training framework is underpinned by three main pillars: clinical experiences, research opportunities, and mentorship.

The clinical training occurs across three prominent sites: UCSF Medical Center, Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, and the San Francisco VA Medical Center. These sites provide fellows with a robust foundation in clinical infectious diseases, ensuring exposure to a wide array of interesting cases and diverse patient populations. The program also offers substantial research support, facilitated by numerous NIH-sponsored training grants, which allow fellows to engage in a broad spectrum of research topics, including global health challenges like HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, as well as antimicrobial stewardship and microbial pathogenesis 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum is structured to provide comprehensive training, beginning with an ID Boot Camp designed to immerse new fellows in foundational topics and skills essential for their clinical duties. Throughout the fellowship, fellows participate in a series of didactic sessions that cover core and advanced infectious disease topics, public health, and research methodologies 6.

Clinical Rotations

Fellows at UCSF rotate through various clinical services during their training. The program's first year includes rotations at UCSF Medical Center, which offers general ID and transplant ID services, and at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, recognized for its care of underserved populations and as a pioneer in HIV care with its historical "Ward 86" clinic. At the San Francisco VA Medical Center, fellows gain experience in a unique veteran population 4.

Research Opportunities

Research is a cornerstone of the training program, with extensive opportunities available in various fields of infectious diseases. The program encourages fellows to engage in both clinical and laboratory research, promoting collaborations with established researchers and access to resources at institutions like the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub. Research topics range from antimicrobial stewardship to emerging infectious diseases, and fellows can pursue advanced degrees or certificates in public health and clinical research 13.

Fellowship Tracks

The fellowship includes two primary tracks: the Clinician Educator Track and the Research Track. The Clinician Educator Track focuses on developing clinical skills and education, while the Research Track is tailored for those seeking an academic research career. Both tracks offer subspecialty options, ensuring fellows can tailor their training to align with their career goals 14.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for qualified international medical graduates to participate in the fellowship. Typically, the program can support J-1 and H-1B visa types, helping facilitate the application process for eligible fellows 9.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is considered competitive, welcoming applications from both US Medical Graduates (USMG) and International Medical Graduates (IMG). There are specific application prerequisites, including the completion of an internal medicine residency and evidence of a commitment to infectious diseases through clinical practice or research 2. It is recommended that applicants submit three letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and register with the NRMP to participate in the match process 3.

Diversity and Inclusion

The program emphasizes diversity in its training environment. It actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups in medicine, promoting a rich cultural and educational milieu for fellows 7. The Diversity Committee works in coordination with other institutional efforts to foster an inclusive atmosphere that supports all fellows.

Fellow Well-Being

The well-being of fellows is a priority within the program. A Well-Being Committee is in place to ensure that the intense nature of fellowship training does not adversely affect fellow health and job satisfaction. This team focuses on creating initiatives that enhance the overall wellness of fellows 8.

Life in San Francisco

Living in San Francisco enhances the fellowship experience significantly. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, various recreational activities, and a supportive community for healthcare professionals and their families. It is renowned for its scenic beauty and conducive environment for fostering personal and professional development 10.