Vanderbilt University Medical Center Program
Location:
Nashville, TNSpecialty:
Pediatric infectious diseasesACGME Code:
3354731052Program Overview
The Vanderbilt University Medical Center Program in Pediatric Infectious Diseases is dedicated to excellence in patient care, training, and research, focusing on improving the health outcomes for children. The program has been operational for 50 years, housing a diverse group of physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and scientists, all committed to advancing the field of pediatric infectious diseases.
The mission of the program encompasses fostering knowledge through rigorous research, education, and the training of scientists and physicians. This initiative is aligned with the overarching goal of enhancing childhood health by delivering exceptional clinical care and innovative research solutions.
1Clinical Training and Educational Opportunities
Education and training are fundamental to the program's mission. The curriculum encompasses extensive clinical training for residents and medical students as well as research training for postdoctoral scientists, PhD students, and fellows. The program is structured to provide comprehensive learning through exposure to a variety of pediatric infectious disease cases and an environment conducive to scientific inquiry.
The faculty at the program are recognized nationally for their contributions to research, clinical practice, and teaching. Trainees benefit from mentorship from experts who are actively engaged in cutting-edge research and healthcare innovations.
1Research Focus
The Vanderbilt University Medical Center Program is characterized by a robust research portfolio with multi-million dollar funding dedicated to pediatric infectious diseases. Faculty and trainees participate in a diverse array of research projects that include studies on the molecular basis of infections, antimicrobial discovery, vaccine trials, and the management of infectious diseases in various populations, including those in South America and Africa.
Outstanding achievements in research efforts include significant contributions toward the development of antivirals, vaccines, and effective management strategies for COVID-19, as well as major discoveries regarding SARS-CoV-2 biology. The program maintains partnerships with several prestigious entities such as the Vanderbilt Institute for Global Health and the Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, further enhancing the depth of its research initiatives.
1Training Grants and Funding Opportunities
The program supports a postdoctoral training grant (T32) specifically for Pediatric Infectious Diseases, reflecting its commitment to fostering research careers in this specialty. Additionally, there are multiple NIH individual training grants available, which include career development awards such as K12, KL2, K08, K23, F30, F31, among others.
These opportunities are designed to help students and fellows enhance their research capabilities and provide critical funding that enables significant contributions to the field.
1Leadership and Advocacy
The faculty of the program are leaders in various advocacy and leadership roles in pediatric infectious diseases, contributing to significant advancements and initiatives in the field. Faculty members hold editorial positions in influential journals and serve on important committees that focus on improving pediatric healthcare standards.
Through active participation in committees such as the Antibacterial Resistance Leadership Group and the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society, faculty members ensure that the program remains at the forefront of addressing emerging infectious disease challenges.
2Competitiveness and Applications
The program is known to be highly competitive, attracting top candidates from across the nation and internationally. While it is an academically rigorous program, it maintains a welcoming stance toward DO and IMG applicants, promoting diversity within its training cohort.
Special application requirements may include considerations related to year of graduation and prior examination attempts, focusing on candidates' overall readiness to undertake the demands of fellowship training.
Visa Sponsorship
The Vanderbilt University Medical Center Program is equipped to support various visa types for international medical graduates seeking to train in the United States. This includes sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas, ensuring that international fellows can participate fully in the program and contribute to the collaborative learning environment.
Website
Director
Sophie E Katz, MD, MPHAssistant Professor of Pediatrics Appointed Since March 2023Coordinator
Program
Program Size
Composition
Quality of Life
First year average hours per week:
70hrsFirst year max cons. hours on duty:
16hrsFirst Year Salary:
$72,014First Year Paid Vacation:
-First Year Paid Sick Leave:
-Training
Fellowship Rate:
-Faculty to Residents Ratio:
2.8XResidents career path:
Admission
Min. Step 2 Score:
-Visa Sponsorship:
-YOG Cutoff:
-Location
Nashville, TN
Housing - Rental Prices
Crime - All Violent Offences
Living in Nashville, TN
- Crime Rate and Safety: Nashville has a moderate crime rate, with some areas experiencing higher crime than others. It is important to stay informed about the safety of different neighborhoods.
- Fun Activities: Nashville is known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous live music venues and events throughout the city. There are also parks, museums, and a variety of dining options to explore.
- Climate: Nashville experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and mild winters. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant times of the year.
- Races and Population: Nashville is a diverse city with a mix of different races and cultures. The population is growing steadily due to its popularity as a place to live and work.
- Education: Nashville is home to several universities and colleges, offering educational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
- Cost of Living: The cost of living in Nashville is relatively moderate compared to other major cities in the US, but housing costs have been increasing in recent years.
- Nearby Cities: Larger cities like Memphis (about 3 hours drive) and Atlanta (about 4 hours drive) are within a reasonable driving distance from Nashville. Each city offers its own unique attractions and cultural experiences.
- Pros: Rich music and cultural scene, diverse population, moderate cost of living compared to other big cities.
- Cons: Some areas have higher crime rates, housing costs are rising, traffic can be congested during peak times.
Interview Questions
