The Medical Genetics and Genomics Fellowship offered by the University of Utah Health represents a sophisticated two-year ACGME-accredited training program, designed to equip fellows with the necessary skills for a successful career in medical genetics. The program is administered through the Department of Pediatrics' Division of Medical Genetics, in partnership with the Department of Pathology and ARUP Laboratories.
Within this fellowship, fellows engage in comprehensive clinical rotations that encompass various aspects of medical genetics. These include training in general outpatient genetics clinics as well as inpatient consultations. Additionally, fellows have the chance to participate in subspecialty and laboratory rotations, providing a well-rounded approach to medical genetics. Exposure to specialized areas such as craniofacial genetics, cardiology, and neurology-based genetics is also part of the curriculum, allowing for a broader understanding of genetic implications in various medical contexts.
One of the highlights of this program is the significant experience fellows gain in evaluating and treating patients with inborn errors of metabolism, alongside practical exposure to biochemical laboratories. The faculty comprises experts in diverse genetic disciplines, including neurofibromatosis, hereditary hearing loss, cardiovascular malformations, skeletal dysplasia, birth defects, epidemiology, developmental biology, dysmorphology, lysosomal storage disorders, and X-linked mental retardation syndromes. This variety not only enhances the learning experience but also fosters an environment of mentorship that is crucial for the development of future geneticists.1
Curriculum and Rotations
The curriculum of the fellowship encompasses two years of intensive training that is integral to the fellow's development. The rotations are designed to provide clinical exposure across various genetics specialties, ensuring that fellows can see a wide range of cases and applications of genetic knowledge in real-world medical scenarios.1
Research Opportunities
Beyond clinical training, the fellowship allows the possibility of extending training by an additional year dedicated to research and case reviews. This additional year provides fellows the opportunity to engage in critical research projects that can significantly contribute to the field of medical genetics.1
Application Requirements
Applicants for this fellowship program are required to hold an MD or DO degree or an equivalent foreign degree that is validated through ECFMG certification. Moreover, candidates must be eligible for a medical license in the state of Utah. It is essential for international applicants to obtain a J-1 visa, as this is the required visa type for international trainees within the program.1
Visa Support
The program supports international applicants by providing guidance on acquiring a J-1 visa, which is essential for their participation in the fellowship. The visa support process is well-organized, ensuring that applicants can focus on their training and professional development without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.1
Competitiveness of the Program
This fellowship is known to be competitive, attracting applicants from various backgrounds, including those holding DO degrees and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program seeks well-qualified candidates with a robust background in clinical training and a clear interest in pursuing a career in medical genetics.1
Department Diversity and Inclusivity
The University of Utah School of Medicine maintains a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, actively ensuring that all applicants are evaluated without discrimination based on gender, race, sexual orientation, or other protected categories. This dedication to inclusivity enriches the educational environment and enhances collaboration among fellows and faculty members.1
Website
Director
David H Viskochil, MD, PhDDirector, Medical Genetics Residency Program/Professor of Pediatrics Appointed Since July 2015Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
45hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
12hrsFirst Year Salary:
$79,868First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
3.5XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Salt Lake City, UT
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Salt Lake City, UT
- Crime Rate and Safety: Salt Lake City has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major U.S. cities. The city is generally safe, but like any urban area, it's advisable to take precautions, especially in certain neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Salt Lake City offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities thanks to its proximity to mountains and national parks. Residents can enjoy skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The city also has cultural attractions like museums, theaters, and a vibrant dining scene.
- Climate: Salt Lake City has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Residents experience all four seasons, with snowfall in winter and warm temperatures in summer.
- Races and Population: Salt Lake City has a diverse population with a mix of different races and ethnicities. The city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
- Education: Salt Lake City offers excellent educational opportunities with top-ranked schools and universities in the area. Residents have access to quality education from elementary school through higher education.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Salt Lake City is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing costs, utilities, and groceries are generally affordable, although prices have been increasing in recent years.
- Proximity to Bigger Cities: Salt Lake City is a few hours' drive away from larger urban centers like Las Vegas (about 6 hours), Denver (about 8 hours), and Phoenix (about 10 hours). This allows residents to take weekend trips to explore these cities.
- Pros: Outdoor recreational opportunities, diverse population, good educational options, moderate cost of living.
- Cons: Cold winters, potential air quality issues, some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates.
Interview Questions
