University of Utah Health Program

Overview of the Program

The Molecular Genetic Pathology Fellowship at the University of Utah Health offers a comprehensive, ACGME-accredited one-year fellowship program in a multidisciplinary field, focusing on molecular testing for various medical disciplines including human genetics, infectious diseases, hematopathology, oncology, pharmacogenetics, and molecular immunology.

Curriculum and Training

Fellows undergo extensive training comprising didactic lectures in molecular pathology, rotations in active clinical laboratories, and participation in clinical research. The program emphasizes hands-on experience with a wide variety of molecular assays, sourced from both University of Utah Health and the associated ARUP Laboratories reference testing network. The range includes traditional PCR-based assays, next-generation sequencing techniques, multi-gene panels for inherited disorders, and oncology diagnostics, as well as exome sequencing aimed at identifying inherited disorders.

Research Opportunities

The fellowship encourages fellows to engage in projects focused on basic assay development and validation. There are abundant opportunities for gaining competence in clinical/pathological correlation for various molecular assays, as well as active involvement in the development of new molecular assays incorporating cutting-edge technologies.

Training Locations and Facilities

The primary training site for the fellowship is at ARUP Laboratories, which provides a rich environment for learning, given the laboratory's extensive volume and variety of testing performed. This collaboration enhances the educational experience by exposing fellows to a breadth of clinical scenarios and diagnostic challenges.

Program Requirements and Applications

Applicants to the fellowship must possess an MD or DO degree (or equivalent) and should be board eligible or board certified in anatomic, clinical, or anatomic/clinical pathology. The program also requires eligibility for a Utah state medical license, and prior experience in molecular biology or genetics is preferred.

Visa Support

The program supports international trainees by offering a J-1 visa as the required visa type. This is a well-defined policy governed by the University of Utah Office of Graduate Medical Education and is applicable to all fellowship programs within the Department of Pathology.

Fellowship Faculty

The faculty involved in the Molecular Genetic Pathology Fellowship consists of experienced professionals in the field. This includes board-certified pathologists and specialists adept in various aspects of molecular genetic pathology, ensuring comprehensive mentorship and guidance for fellows.

Competitiveness and Diversity

The fellowship is designed to be accessible and does not discriminate based on gender, identity, sexual orientation, race, or any other factor, creating an inclusive atmosphere for applicants from diverse backgrounds. The program supports both DO and IMG candidates, making it a friendly environment for a variety of applicants. However, it is considered competitive, emphasizing the need for strong qualifications and previous experience.