The Allergy/Immunology Fellowship Program at the University of Rochester Medical Center provides a comprehensive training opportunity for prospective fellows. This ACGME accredited program offers a flexible curriculum that allows fellows to tailor their training according to individual career goals and learning objectives. Prospective fellows can look forward to an engaging fellowship experience characterized by both clinical and research components.
Program Highlights
The fellowship program is distinguished by its collaboration within the combined division of Allergy/Immunology and Rheumatology. This structure offers fellows unique opportunities for combined training in both specialties, enhancing their clinical exposure and breadth of knowledge in the field. The University of Rochester Medical Center has been recognized as a World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, a designation that underscores the program's commitment to advancing multidisciplinary research and education in allergy, asthma, and clinical immunology 1.
Curriculum Structure
The curriculum encompasses a variety of training modalities including clinical exposure to a broad spectrum of allergic and immunologic disorders such as anaphylaxis, primary immunodeficiency, autoimmune disorders, and eosinophilic disorders. First-year fellows are expected to engage in academic coursework, including a graduate course in immunology 4. The fellow’s training is organized across multiple blocks, which include:
- Adult and pediatric clinics
- Specialty clinics
- Pediatric food allergy
- Sub-specialty rotations in dermatology, otolaryngology, and pulmonology
- Research and inpatient consults
Fellows are also required to complete a scholarly project which enhances their learning experience and encourages them to contribute to the field through publications and presentations at national conferences 5.
Research Opportunities
The research component of the program is robust, with opportunities spanning clinical and translational research. The fellowship emphasizes the importance of scholarly work, with each fellow required to complete a project under the guidance of faculty mentors 6. Examples of past fellow projects include studies on the impact of Dupilumab on pediatric food allergy, health disparities in food allergy and atopic dermatitis, and the epidemiology of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome.
Fellow Life and Work-Life Balance
A significant aspect of the fellowship experience at Rochester is the emphasis on work-life balance. Fellows have reported a commitment to their well-being alongside rigorous academic training. Outside of their clinical responsibilities, fellows can participate in various recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring local wineries in the picturesque Finger Lakes region 7.
Application Process and Visa Support
Applicants to the fellowship must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or possess a J1 visa. The program exclusively sponsors J1 visas for medical training positions, aligning with its commitment to supporting international medical graduates who wish to pursue training in allergy and immunology 8. The application process requires that candidates have completed an ACGME-accredited residency in internal medicine, pediatrics, or a combined program.
Faculty and Mentorship
The faculty at the University of Rochester consists of experienced clinicians and researchers who provide invaluable mentoring and foster personal relationships with fellows. This supportive environment is frequently cited by current and former fellows as a major reason for their positive experiences in the program 9.
Competitiveness and Application Requirements
The Allergy/Immunology Fellowship Program at the University of Rochester is competitive, emphasizing strong academic performance during residency and a demonstrated commitment to the field of allergy and immunology. While specific statistics on acceptance rates are not provided, the program is noted to be welcoming to applicants from diverse backgrounds, including DOs and international medical graduates 8.
Website
Director
Theresa A Bingemann, MD, BAProgram Director Appointed Since March 2020Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
24hrsFirst Year Salary:
$78,126First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
4.3XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Rochester, NY
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Rochester, NY
- Crime Rate and Safety: Rochester has a higher crime rate compared to the national average, with certain areas experiencing more crime. It's advisable to research the specific neighborhoods for safety.
- Fun Activities: Rochester offers a variety of cultural attractions, parks, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is known for its festivals, museums, and a lively arts scene.
- Climate: Rochester experiences four distinct seasons with cold winters, mild summers, and colorful fall foliage. Snowfall is common in winter.
- Races and Population: Rochester is a diverse city with a mix of different races and ethnicities, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
- Education: Rochester is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational opportunities for residents. The city also has a strong focus on K-12 education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Rochester is lower than the national average, making it a more affordable option for residents.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: New York City is approximately a 6-hour drive from Rochester, while Buffalo is about a 1.5-hour drive. Both cities offer a range of amenities, entertainment options, and cultural attractions.
- Pros: Affordable cost of living, diverse cultural offerings, strong educational institutions.
- Cons: Higher crime rate in certain areas, colder winters.
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