University of North Carolina Hospitals Program

The University of North Carolina Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Fellowship program, located in Chapel Hill, NC, is an ACGME fully accredited three-year subspecialty program designed to prepare pediatricians for careers in academic and clinical pediatric endocrinology and diabetes. The program aims to train the next generation of outstanding leaders in the field by instilling a commitment to lifelong learning, fostering research engagement, and modeling excellence in care for patients with endocrine disorders.

Program Goals

The primary objectives of the program include:

• Training excellent clinical specialists in pediatric endocrinology through a multidisciplinary model with evidence-based medicine.
• Advancing clinical care in pediatric endocrinology by encouraging fellows to ask insightful questions and providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills to answer those questions.
• Fostering advocacy for effective education, optimization of care, and efficient access to resources for the patient population.
• Producing independent pediatric endocrinologists who can lead nationally and locally within the field.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship features an extensive curriculum that encompasses a variety of educational activities including:

• Weekly conferences covering core endocrine topics.
• Endocrine teaching conferences led by both fellows and faculty members.
• Visiting lecturer seminars and pediatric endocrinology journal clubs.
• Research opportunities spanning basic science and clinical research.

Through these activities, fellows will engage in case conferences that enhance their learning and teaching skills within multidisciplinary teams 1.

Research Opportunities

Fellows have access to diverse research frameworks within the UNC Pediatric Division of Endocrinology, as well as collaborations with other university departments. Potential research projects could analyze treatment outcomes for conditions such as type 1 diabetes, Turner syndrome, and metabolic bone disorders, among others. The commitment to academic excellence is undisputed, with fellows working closely with faculty members engaged in basic science and clinical trials 3.

Training Sites and Structure

The fellowship training involves a comprehensive clinical and research experience over three years:

First Year: Emphasizing both inpatient and outpatient care with significant exposure to a wide range of pediatric endocrine disorders such as diabetes, growth disorders, and thyroid function. The first year includes a mix of inpatient rotations and outpatient clinic responsibilities.

Second and Third Year: Fellows engage more deeply in research projects while maintaining continuity with patient care. They are given opportunities to lead clinical conferences, participate in elective clinics, and continue their education through various meetings and seminars.

Fellows are expected to manage patient cases actively and engage with a multidisciplinary team to provide comprehensive care 5.

Faculty and Mentorship

The fellowship is supported by a dedicated and approachable faculty renowned for their expertise in pediatric endocrinology. Mentorship plays a vital role in the program, with faculty guiding fellows throughout their training in both clinical and research settings. Faculty members are involved in groundbreaking research, providing fellows opportunities to experience leading projects 4.

Diversity and Inclusion

The UNC Division of Pediatric Endocrinology is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. This commitment includes actively recruiting and mentoring a diverse group of fellows to ensure a rich educational atmosphere that reflects the patients served.

Visa Sponsorship

The program offers J-1 visa sponsorship for international medical graduates. Applicants must have a valid ECFMG certificate if they graduated from a medical school outside the U.S., Canada, or Puerto Rico.

Application Process

Applicants to the fellowship must have completed three years of training in an accredited pediatrics residency program. The application should include:
- Online application form
- Current photograph
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
- Dean’s letter
- Medical school transcript
- USMLE Parts 1, 2, and 3 completed within the designated timeframe 2.

The competitive nature of the program welcomes both DO and IMG applicants, but they should note specific requirements regarding their previous training and examination history.