University of Tennessee Program

The Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) offers a well-rounded curriculum designed to immerse fellows in the comprehensive aspects of clinical pediatric nephrology. The fellowship program encompasses various key areas including hypertension, chronic kidney disease, diabetic nephropathy, congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract (CAKUT), hereditary kidney diseases, acute kidney injury, glomerulonephritis, and dialysis options such as acute/chronic hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

Housing the program is the combined strength of Le Bonheur Children's Hospital and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. This unique collaboration provides an exceptional learning environment, particularly in onco-nephrology, where fellows can benefit from a large clinical exposure and focused research opportunities. The program continually receives high national rankings, reinforcing its status among the best pediatric nephrology programs according to U.S. News & World Report.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum is organized into practical rotations through various critical aspects of pediatric nephrology. The training spans over three years and includes specialized rotations such as inpatient nephrology service, transplant surgery, hemodialysis, and outpatient general nephrology clinics. In the first year of training, fellows are expected to spend significant time on inpatient rotations (5 months), gain research experience (3 months), and participate in hands-on procedures such as performing kidney biopsies.

Throughout the second and third years, the fellow's focus shifts towards enhancing clinical skills while developing a deeper engagement in research activities. Fellows will be involved in longitudinal follow-ups of dialysis and transplant patients, with significant opportunities for initiating and managing various renal replacement therapies.

Research Opportunities

Fellows in the Pediatric Nephrology program are provided with rich research opportunities. The program is an active member of several renowned research consortiums, including the Pediatric Nephrology Research Consortium (PNRC) and the North American Pediatric Renal Trials and Collaborative Studies (NAPRTCS), among others. The program actively collaborates with the University of Memphis and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to create an extensive research network that supports fellows in exploring innovative studies as well as clinical trials.

Educational Activities

The educational framework of the fellowship is robust, featuring weekly educational division meetings, journal clubs, and board review sessions. Additionally, fellows are encouraged to engage in various monthly meetings focused on pathology, transplant protocols, and grant writing. The program is designed to support the professional development of fellows through attendance at both national and international conferences, enhancing exposure to advancements in pediatric nephrology.

Salary, Benefits, and Leave Policies

Fellows receive a competitive salary, supplemented with disability and life insurance benefits. The benefits package includes healthcare insurance, educational allowances (up to $1,500 per year), and leave policies permitting three weeks of annual leave, three weeks of sick leave, and additional time for educational pursuits and family leave. Furthermore, fellows have access to modern recreational facilities and educational resources as part of the university's commitment to supporting clinician education.

Application Requirements

Applicants must have completed three years in an ACGME-accredited clinical pediatric residency program and possess a valid U.S. medical license. The program accepts graduates from LCME-approved U.S. medical schools, AOA accredited Osteopathic schools, and international medical graduates with valid ECFMG certificates. It is noteworthy that the program does not sponsor H-type visas and accepts fellows eligible to seek J-1 visas or those who are permanent residents.

Competitiveness and Inclusion

The Pediatric Nephrology Fellowship is known to be highly competitive, attracting a diverse array of applicants. The program prides itself on being open to Osteopathic (DO) and international medical graduates (IMG), thereby fostering an inclusive environment for training in pediatric nephrology.

Unique Aspects of Memphis

Memphis is recognized for its vibrant healthcare community, housing two leading children's hospitals, several specialized medical facilities, and a rich cultural heritage. The region not only offers a supportive clinical setting for fellows but also provides a variety of leisure activities, including sports, music venues, and parks. This contributes to a well-rounded residency experience that balances rigorous training with personal enrichment opportunities.