University of Texas Medical Branch Hospitals Program
Location:
Austin, TXSpecialty:
Forensic pathologyACGME Code:
3104830092Overview of the Forensic Pathology Fellowship Program
The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) offers an ACGME-accredited Forensic Pathology Fellowship that spans one year with up to two positions available annually. The program is primarily conducted at the Travis County Medical Examiner’s Office, located in Austin, TX. This fellowship provides comprehensive training in forensic pathology, covering vital aspects of medicolegal death investigation and associated disciplines.
1Training and Curriculum
During the year-long program, fellows will engage in extensive training, which includes completing between 200 to 300 autopsies under supervision. The curriculum encompasses various domains such as forensic pathology, advanced postmortem imaging, toxicology, forensic anthropology, and forensic odontology. There is also a dedicated series of didactic lectures, practical exercises, and conferences that supplement the clinical experience, thereby enhancing fellows' proficiency in the field.
1Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet specific criteria to be considered for the fellowship. Candidates should have completed a residency in either anatomical and clinical pathology or anatomic pathology accredited by ACGME, or an equivalent Canadian residency program. Additionally, candidates need a full, unrestricted Texas medical license or a Texas Physician-in-Training permit before fellowship commencement.
1Program Structure and Environment
The fellowship is supported by a well-resourced environment that houses a staff of nine board-certified forensic pathologists. UTMB’s facility includes modern technology such as a computed tomography scanner, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and providing cutting-edge training. The office processes a variety of cases, including those from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and additional referral cases from surrounding counties.
1Professional Development Opportunities
The program fosters involvement in research projects and encourages participation in relevant forensic pathology conferences. This offering helps fellows to develop their research and presentation skills and to stay updated with the latest advancements in forensic pathology.
3Visa Sponsorship and Support
UTMB is equipped to support non-US citizen applicants through appropriate visa sponsorship. However, the program will only sponsor J-1 visas, and candidates need to understand the associated regulations and requirements while applying.
1Competitiveness of the Fellowship
The Forensic Pathology Fellowship at UTMB is competitive, and candidates are encouraged to demonstrate robust academic and clinical experiences. Prior training in pathology is highly regarded and may enhance an applicant's chances for selection.
1Application Process and Special Requirements
Applications for the fellowship are reviewed on a rolling basis, and there are no strict submission deadlines. However, it is suggested that applications include a standardized application form, three letters of recommendation, a comprehensive curriculum vitae, and any additional documents as specified by the program guidelines.
1Living and Working Environment
Fellows will be living in Austin, a city noted for its vibrant culture and diverse community. The Texas capital is recognized for its growth, outdoor activities, and culinary scene. Being located near the University of Texas, fellows have access to numerous resources and networking opportunities within the medical and educational communities.
1Research and Academic Collaboration
UTMB supports its fellows through structured collaborations with various departments and ongoing engagement in noteworthy research projects and case studies. Research efforts often focus on practical applications in forensic science, enhancing the educational experience within the fellowship.
3Website
Director
Keith Pinckard, MD, PhDChief Medical Examiner Appointed Since November 2021Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
50hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
-First Year Salary:
$105,000First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
10XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Austin, TX
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Austin, TX
- Crime Rate and Safety: Austin is generally considered safe, but like any city, it has its share of crime. It's advisable to take standard safety precautions.
- Fun Activities: Austin is known for its live music scene, outdoor activities like hiking and swimming in the Barton Springs Pool, and an array of food trucks offering diverse cuisine.
- Climate: Austin has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- Races and Population: Austin is a diverse city with a mix of races and cultures. The population is around 950,000.
- Education: Austin is home to the University of Texas at Austin, a prestigious educational institution.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Austin is moderate, with housing costs being relatively affordable compared to other major cities.
- Proximity to Larger Cities: Austin is about 3 hours away from Houston and 1.5 hours from San Antonio by car.
- Pros: Vibrant cultural scene, diverse culinary options, outdoor activities, and moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Traffic congestion during rush hours, increasing cost of living due to population growth.