University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Program

The Molecular Genetic Pathology Fellowship at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center aims to train fellows in both the theory and practice of Molecular Diagnostics and Molecular Pathology. The goal is to equip candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to independently manage a Molecular Diagnostics Lab, provide consultation services in Molecular Genetic Pathology, engage in research related to the field, and possibly prepare for further specialized fellowships or training programs.

The program encompasses a comprehensive curriculum that includes practical experience in various critical areas such as molecular diagnostics, cytogenetics, clinical medical genetics, HLA typing, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) for cancer cases, as well as clinical lab management to enhance the fellows' capabilities in these fields. Additionally, it offers training in lab management and clinician consultation. This multi-faceted fellowship is one year in length and is fully accredited by ACGME.

Curriculum Overview

The fellows rotate through specialized Molecular Diagnostics labs located at UT Southwestern’s BioCenter and Children's Health℠ Children’s Medical Center. The curriculum integrates clinical rotations in Clinical Genetics at both Children’s Hospital and Parkland Hospital, as well as Cancer Genetics through the Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center. The fellowship program qualifies participants to sit for the American Board of Pathology (ABP) certification examination in Molecular Genetic Pathology and/or the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG) certification examination in Clinical Molecular Genetics and Genomics.

Laboratory Rotations and Experiences

During the fellowship, laboratory rotations train fellows in essential skills such as molecular assay development, validation, troubleshooting, interpretation, and independent sign-out. Fellows gain hands-on experience with advanced technologies including real-time PCR, Sanger sequencing, Illumina and Ion Torrent NGS, bioinformatics, and various analyses for a range of clinical assays including cancer gene mutation analysis and infectious agents. Additionally, fellows are expected to participate in journal clubs, molecular and clinical conferences, and UT Southwestern’s basic science and clinical conferences tailored to their specific interests.

Research Opportunities

Research is a critical component of the fellowship, with opportunities for fellows to engage in translational and clinical research projects. This includes development of new assays and understanding their applications in oncology and infectious disease contexts.

Elective Rotations and Educational Activities

Elective rotations are available in cytogenetics, FISH, DNA arrays, and HLA typing, providing further breadth to the training experience. The fellowship also offers a series of formal lectures covering various pertinent subjects such as cancer biology, molecular microbiology, and medical genetics, enhancing the theoretical knowledge base of the fellows.

Program and Faculty

The program is supported by a diverse team of faculty, fostering an environment conducive to learning. Trainees share office space with fellows from hematopathology and cytogenetics, inclusive of pathology residents and visiting scholars. This collaborative environment supports knowledge exchange and mentorship.

Visa Support

For international applicants, the program provides visa support specifically for candidates who are Board-eligible or certified in Anatomic Pathology (AP), Clinical Pathology (CP), or Medical Genetics. However, it is important to note that the program does not currently accept H1B visas or non-MD/DO candidates.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The fellowship is competitive, with stringent application standards. Candidates are typically required to have a certain level of eligibility or certification, and currently, the program has specific guidelines regarding the maximum number of failed STEP exams. Applicants should ensure they meet the qualifications to enhance their competitiveness for this esteemed program.

Benefits and Financial Support

Financial support is available to assist fellows in attending conferences, alongside educational funds and the provision of necessary equipment such as laptops. Additional benefits are contingent upon the specifics of the program.