University of Minnesota Program

The Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship Program at the University of Minnesota is a comprehensive 3-year program designed for individuals who have already completed an ACGME-accredited Pediatric Residency Program. The program is structured to foster clinical excellence and research opportunities within the field of pediatric pulmonary medicine.

Program Overview

This fellowship is ACGME-accredited and is structured to provide fellows with a balanced mix of clinical training, procedural experience, and opportunities to engage in research activities. The training emphasizes hands-on learning in various settings, enhancing fellows' abilities to diagnose and manage complex pulmonary conditions in children.

Curriculum and Rotations

Fellows will undergo various rotations that include outpatient clinics, inpatient wards, and critical care settings. The core curriculum is designed to offer broad exposure to all pulmonary related pediatric conditions. Typical experiences will include:

• Outpatient clinic visits focused on asthma, cystic fibrosis, sleep disorders, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
• Inpatient consultations with the pediatric critical care and emergency services.
• Procedural training opportunities that may include bronchoscopy and pulmonary function testing.
• Research block time to ensure fellows can focus on ongoing projects or initiate new studies relevant to pediatric pulmonology.

During this training, fellows will also participate in weekly conferences, lectures, and case discussions that promote an interdisciplinary approach to pediatric pulmonary care.

Research Opportunities

The University of Minnesota provides extensive research opportunities supported by a robust faculty engaged in ongoing studies in pediatric pulmonology. Research areas may include:1

• Asthma management and outcomes.
• Longitudinal studies on cystic fibrosis.
• Sleep disorders in children, including sleep apnea.
• Impact of environmental exposures on respiratory health.

Fellows are encouraged to present their research findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals, fostering academic growth and exposure within the medical community.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship at the University of Minnesota prides itself on its inclusive environment that values diversity and equity in education. The program actively solicits applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups in medicine, promoting a diverse fellowship cohort.2

Furthermore, the program has established a strong network of faculty mentorship, allowing fellows to seek guidance in both clinical and research endeavors, which is critical for building future leaders in pediatric pulmonology.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

Admission to the Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship Program is highly competitive, with a preference for candidates who have demonstrated excellence in their pediatric residency training and possess a passion for pediatric pulmonary medicine. Applicants must possess a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree and will need to provide:

• A current curriculum vitae.
• A personal statement expressing their interest in pediatric pulmonology.
• Three letters of recommendation, ideally including one from a residency program director.3

Additionally, the program supports candidates who hold a J-1 Visa and does not accept those who have already worked in a fellowship program for more than two years.

Stipend & Benefits

Each fellow is provided with funding for the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) General Pediatrics Certifying Exam. They also receive annual educational funds, state medical licensing support, and membership in the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) including subspecialty sections.4

All benefits provided to fellows ensure they have the resources needed to thrive both in training and professional development during and after fellowship.

Living in Minneapolis

Minneapolis offers a vibrant community with rich cultural diversity, ample outdoor activities including lakes and parks, as well as a strong health care workforce. The city itself has a supportive environment for residents in training, with various amenities to promote a balanced lifestyle during fellowship years.