University of South Florida Morsani Program

The University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine offers a comprehensive Gynecologic Oncology Fellowship that is designed to prepare fellows for a successful career in this specialized field. The program aims to cultivate gynecologic oncologists who can deliver exceptional cancer care in both academic and clinical settings. The structure of the fellowship includes 12 months dedicated to hands-on research followed by 24 months of intensive clinical training.

Throughout the fellowship, trainees engage in a variety of rotations at Tampa General Hospital (TGH), which serves as the primary clinical affiliate of the USF Morsani College of Medicine. These rotations are structured to provide exposure to the wide-ranging clinical challenges that gynecologic oncologists may encounter. Fellows receive comprehensive training in surgical and medical management approaches for gynecologic cancers, along with experience in clinical cancer genetics, genetic counseling, palliative care, and complex surgical management strategies.

Upon successful completion of the three-year program, fellows will be eligible to take the written and oral examinations for certification in gynecologic oncology by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) 1.

Clinical Training

Clinical training, primarily conducted during the second and third years, focuses on mastering surgical techniques and medical modalities essential for function as a gynecologic oncologist. Fellows gain exposure to open and minimally invasive surgical techniques, including robotic and traditional laparoscopy. Alongside surgical training, the program emphasizes the importance of chemotherapy, targeted biologic agents, clinical genetics, and palliative care, which are integrated through outpatient care, work rounds, and tumor boards at TGH 4.

Research Experience

The first year of fellowship is dedicated to research, where each fellow is expected to develop skills in clinical and translational research. This year involves working under the guidance of experienced mentors on focused investigations. Fellows typically engage in lab-based research focusing on molecular cancer genetics, immunobiology, clinical trial design, and molecular epidemiology, among other areas of interest. This emphasis on research not only supports academic productivity but also ensures that fellows complete a draft manuscript suitable for thesis use by the end of the first year 8.

Training Environment

Tampa General Hospital is a 1,010-bed academic teaching facility and is recognized as the best hospital in Tampa Bay and among the top hospitals in Florida. TGH also provides extensive surgical services with nearly 900 major surgical procedures performed annually by the Gynecologic Oncology Service, which is staffed solely by USF faculty 4.

Community and Diversity

The fellowship program values community, belonging, and respect as core principles. The USF Health Department fosters an inclusive environment that encourages individuals from all backgrounds to thrive. This commitment to diversity ensures that fellows and all members of the department feel valued and empowered to contribute positively 5.

Competitiveness and Application Process

The program seeks applicants who demonstrate a strong academic background, commitment to gynecologic oncology, and readiness for a rigorous training environment. Application requirements include a personal statement, a minimum of three letters of recommendation, USMLE scores, and medical school transcripts. The program does not specify maximum failed STEP exam attempts, making it potentially more accessible to a broader range of candidates 3.

Visa Support

The program provides visa sponsorship for international applicants. It typically supports J-1 and H-1B visas, which are common for individuals pursuing graduate medical education in the United States. It is essential for prospective international fellows to inquire about specific requirements and processes related to visa applications during the application phase 1.