University of Rochester Program

The Forensic Pathology Fellowship Program offers a one-year ACGME accredited fellowship through the Monroe County Office of the Medical Examiner (MCOME) in partnership with the University of Rochester Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. This fellowship provides comprehensive training and experience in forensic pathology, leveraging the resources of MCOME, which conducts over 4000 death investigations and 1200 autopsies annually, including approximately 80-90 homicides each year. The diverse cases encountered allow fellows to gain invaluable experience in both urban and rural environments.

The MCOME team includes three full-time board-certified forensic pathologists, 24 forensic toxicologists, medical death investigators, and autopsy technicians. This multidisciplinary team ensures that fellows receive a well-rounded education, supported by a strong administrative staff, which facilitates a productive and efficient working environment. Fellows will have access to a variety of consultative services like neuropathology, forensic odontology, and anthropology, broadening the scope of learning opportunities available throughout the fellowship 1.

Curriculum

The curriculum of the Forensic Pathology Fellowship is designed to provide fellows with hands-on experience through various components. The training includes on-scene death investigations alongside medical investigators and court appearances. Initially, fellows accompany forensic pathologists to gain insights and later may provide sworn testimony about the cases in which they have participated. On-site training encompasses forensic toxicology and odontology, while off-site rotations involve visits to the Monroe County Crime Lab for insights into ballistics, serology, and trace evidence.

Fellows are encouraged to engage actively with medical students, residents, law enforcement, and attorneys, as they will provide instructions and guidance during regular business hours. They will receive their own office space and comprehensive educational resources, including standard textbooks and access to microscopic slide reviews. Regular didactic sessions, journal clubs, and diagnostic consensus conferences with faculty members enrich the learning experience. Additionally, fellows are supported with time and funds to attend at least one national meeting related to forensic pathology, either NAME or AAFS 4.

Application Process

Applicants for the fellowship must meet specific eligibility criteria. They must be board-certified or board-eligible in anatomic pathology (AP) or combined anatomic pathology and clinical pathology (AP/CP). It is mandatory that candidates complete the USMLE by the application deadline. The applications are accepted through the ERAS system, which requires potential fellows to submit a CV, a personal statement, and three letters of recommendation. The program will participate in the NRMP match process starting in the 2026-2027 academic year 5.

Salary and Benefits

The financial aspect of the fellowship ensures that fellows receive a competitive stipend. For the 2024-2025 academic year, stipends approved are as follows: PGY1 - $68,417, PGY2 - $71,286, PGY3 - $74,835, PGY4 - $78,126, PGY5 - $81,902, PGY6 - $85,376, PGY7 - $89,245, and PGY8 - $94,241 3.

Living in Rochester

Rochester, NY, offers a vibrant community for residents with a cost of living significantly below the national average, making it an attractive place to live while pursuing training. The city ranks highly in terms of quality of life, offering a diverse array of cultural, recreational, and leisure activities contributing to a welcoming environment for new residents. Medical residents, including fellows, are actively engaged in addressing health disparities and promoting anti-racism initiatives within the community, aligning with the values of the University of Rochester Medical Center. Proximity to the picturesque Finger Lakes region provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration 6.