University of Chicago Program
Location:
Chicago, ILSpecialty:
Pediatric infectious diseasesACGME Code:
3351631019The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship at the University of Chicago represents a highly rigorous, three-year program accredited by ACGME. Designed to train future leaders in the field, the program provides fellows with invaluable exposure to diverse and complex pediatric patient populations, as well as robust research opportunities within both the section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and the broader University community 1.
During the fellowship, participants are immersed in a variety of clinical settings, starting with a comprehensive inpatient clinical consultation service located at Comer Children's Hospital. Additionally, fellows engage in outpatient experiences that include HIV/STI prevention and treatment through Care2Prevent at a federally qualified health center 1. The structure of the training is designed to enable fellows to pursue career paths in academics, clinical practice, or research, tailored to their individual interests.
Curriculum Structure
The fellowship curriculum is segmented effectively over the three years, consisting of 12 months of clinical experience and 24 months dedicated to research 3. The first year includes:
- 6 months on inpatient clinical consultation service
- 1 month in Clinical Diagnostic Microbiology
- 1 month in Infection Control/Antimicrobial Stewardship
Years two and three primarily focus on scholarly activity and research, where fellows develop a substantial project that meets requirements set by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). Each of these years mandates at least three months of clinical service to ensure continuous hands-on experience 2.
Clinical Rotations
Each year, fellows rotate through different outpatient clinics, interacting with experienced mentors:
- Year 1: Outpatient General ID Clinic
- Year 2: Friend Health Center focusing on HIV/STI
- Year 3: Mt. Sinai Hospital Outpatient General Pediatric ID Clinic
Educational Opportunities
The program boasts a rich educational schedule, including:
- Pediatric ID Noon Conference - weekly
- Pediatric Grand Rounds - weekly
- Combined Adult/Peds Didactic Conferences - thrice weekly
- Pediatric ID Board Review/Case Conference - weekly
- Pediatric ID Core Curriculum - spread over 18 months
- Teleconferences - monthly
This comprehensive educational framework prepares fellows for the ABP Pediatric Infectious Diseases Certifying Examination at the end of their training 4.
Research Opportunities
Fellows are encouraged to pursue diverse scholarly projects, including areas such as Infection Prevention, Antimicrobial Stewardship, and Pediatric/Adolescent HIV. These research activities allow fellows to contribute significantly to the field while engaging with the extensive academic resources available at the University of Chicago 1.
Benefits and Support
The fellowship provides a highly competitive benefits package that addresses the physical and mental health needs of its fellows. This includes:
- Dental, vision, and health insurance coverage
- Life insurance and long-term disability
- Tuition remission for dependent children at the University of Chicago Lab School
- Education funds for professional development
- Wellness programs and stipends
Furthermore, fellows have access to a substantial wellness discretionary fund and receive a monthly stipend to offset personal device usage 2.
Visa Support
The program is committed to inclusivity and actively encourages applications from underrepresented minorities. International applicants requiring visa sponsorship are primarily supported through J-1 visa sponsorship, allowing for a full-time work authorization in accordance with the program's start date 5.
Competitiveness and Special Requirements
The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship at the University of Chicago is considered highly competitive. Applicants must be residents in Pediatrics (PL3 or higher) or have completed an accredited Pediatric residency. Eligibility for the American Board of Pediatrics Board examination is required upon completion of the fellowship 5.
In summary, the fellowship offers comprehensive training, robust research opportunities, and a supportive environment conducive to developing the next generation of leaders in Pediatric Infectious Diseases, all within a culturally rich and academically challenging institution.
Website
Director
Madan Kumar, DOAssistant Professor of Pediatrics; Program Director Appointed Since July 2024Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
10hrsFirst Year Salary:
$83,350First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Chicago, IL
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Chicago, IL
- Crime Rate and Safety: Chicago has areas with higher crime rates, but many neighborhoods are safe. It's important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
- Fun Activities: Chicago offers a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, theaters, music venues, and a variety of dining options. There are also beautiful parks and Lake Michigan for outdoor activities.
- Climate: Chicago has cold winters with snow and hot, humid summers. Spring and fall are pleasant seasons.
- Races and Population: Chicago is a diverse city with a mix of ethnicities and cultures, making it a multicultural hub.
- Education: Chicago has several universities and colleges, offering opportunities for continuous learning.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Chicago is relatively high compared to other cities, especially in terms of housing.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Nearby bigger cities include Milwaukee, WI (1.5 hours drive) and Indianapolis, IN (3 hours drive).
- Pros: Rich cultural scene, diverse population, great food options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Cons: Higher cost of living, areas with higher crime rates, and extreme weather conditions.
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