University of Michigan Program

The Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program at the University of Michigan is a comprehensive, three-year training program designed to develop pediatricians into experts in infectious diseases. This fellowship is based at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, a premier facility renowned for its pediatric care, and provides extensive clinical experience along with significant research opportunities.

Program Structure

The fellowship consists of diverse clinical experiences and scholarly activities. First-year fellows spend approximately four to six months on the pediatric infectious diseases consult service, where they manage both common and rare infections in a diverse patient population. The remaining months are dedicated to research projects to cultivate investigative skills and contribute to the field.

During the first year, fellows also engage in clinical conferences, attend and contribute to outpatient clinics, and collaborate on antimicrobial stewardship and infection prevention initiatives. The program emphasizes a balance between clinical duties and research, ensuring fellows develop both areas.

Rotations and Clinical Training

The training includes rotations in key areas such as clinical bacteriology, virology, and mycology. Fellows work closely with faculty members and other trainees, which provides an inclusive and collaborative learning environment. They participate in the Pediatric Infectious Disease Consultation service alongside a multidisciplinary team consisting of faculty, fellows, residents, and pharmacy students, facilitating comprehensive patient care and learning.

Fellows also follow their patients in the outpatient clinic, fostering continuity in care and deepening patient management skills. Joint conferences with the Internal Medicine Infectious Diseases service further enhance educational experiences, and weekly case discussions sharpen clinical reasoning.

Research Opportunities and Scholarly Activity

Fellows are encouraged to initiate research projects early in their training. They receive guidance in study design, patient assessment methods, and statistical analysis, which are critical for conducting significant research. The program facilitates participation in various research conferences and journal clubs, allowing fellows to engage with ongoing scholarly work within the institution.

The University of Michigan supports research in pediatric infectious diseases through its extensive network of resources across various medical departments. Each fellow collaborates with a research mentor to refine their project and may even submit grant proposals to support their research endeavors.

Educational Conferences

The fellowship includes numerous educational conferences and training sessions. This includes Pediatric Infectious Diseases journal clubs, Grand Rounds, and interdisciplinary discussions that aim to integrate academic learning with clinical practice. Each of these sessions is tailored to deepen fellows' knowledge of current practices in pediatric infectious diseases.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be admitted into the program, candidates must have completed three years in an ACGME-accredited pediatric residency program by the fellowship start date. They should possess a valid ECFMG certificate or be eligible for a full, unrestricted medical practice license in the United States. Candidates are required to have successfully passed USMLE Steps I, II, and III.

The application process includes submitting letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and transcripts through the ERAS system. The selection is based on a combination of academic credentials, clinical performance, and personal attributes.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The fellowship program at the University of Michigan is known for its competitiveness, attracting candidates from across the country and beyond. The program is inclusive and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, supporting the recruitment of a varied and talented group of fellows.

Salary and Benefits

The fellowship offers a competitive salary, complemented by comprehensive benefits that include health insurance, retirement plans, and support for educational endeavors. Details regarding salary and benefits are outlined on the GME Office website.

Visa and Employment Support

The program provides support for visa applications, allowing fellows from international backgrounds to participate in training. The preferred visa type is the J-1 visa, which facilitates educational exchange for clinical training.

Living in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is heralded as a vibrant city, combining academic excellence with a rich cultural scene. Its environment promotes a balanced lifestyle, featuring numerous outdoor activities and community events that cater to professionals and families alike.

This fellowship program not only aims to create skilled pediatric infectious disease specialists but also ensures that its graduates have the path toward fulfilling and impactful careers in academic medicine.