University of North Carolina Hospitals Program

The University of North Carolina Hospitals Program offers a Laboratory Genetics & Genomics Fellowship that provides training in Clinical Cytogenetics and Molecular Diagnostics. The program is three years in duration and leads to eligibility for certification by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG). Fellows gain experience in a variety of genetic tests for both inherited and somatic disorders, cancer predispositions, and monitoring of bone marrow transplants, among other areas.

The UNC Cytogenetics Laboratory is a high-volume facility that processes a large number of prenatal, postnatal, and cancer specimens annually, utilizing techniques such as tissue culture, chromosome banding and analysis, FISH, and chromosome microarray analysis. Fellows are also involved in establishing new testing methodologies, reviewing and maintaining procedure manuals, and practicing quality control in accordance with regulatory standards.

Applicants must have a Ph.D. in an area related to genetics or an M.D. to be eligible for the program. Physicians also have the option for fellowship training in Molecular Genetic Pathology. The fellowship stipends are equivalent to a PGY1 salary for residency programs.

Applications for the Laboratory Genetics and Genomics fellowship starting in July 2025 will be accepted from May 1 through August 31, 2024. Applicants are required to have completed their Ph.D. or M.D. before the application deadline. The application materials include a CV, personal statement, and three reference letters, to be submitted to Jessica Booker, PhD, at the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina.

For individuals with graduate education obtained outside the United States, Canada, or Puerto Rico, a Credential Evaluation letter from the ABMGG is also required.