Fellowship Program Director: Melissa Merideth, M.D., M.P.H.
Overview
The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) offers a two-year fellowship program in Clinical Biochemical Genetics that is focused on developing the expertise necessary to direct a CLIA-certified Clinical Biochemical Genetics Diagnostic Laboratory. Required rotations include Clinical Biochemical Laboratories at Children’s National Health System, the University of Maryland, Kennedy Krieger Institute and the NIH. In addition, fellows rotate at the State of Maryland Newborn Screening Laboratory, Quest and GeneDx. Although this laboratory-based program is accredited by the ACGME as a 2-year program, the program can be completed in 1 year if the applicant has completed prior genetics training in Medical Genetics and Genomics, Laboratory Genetics and Genomics or Medical Biochemical Genetics. Our program aims include training leaders in biochemical genetics who can succeed in a variety of careers: diagnostic laboratories, academic medical centers, research, industry, or policy-focused work, as well as teaching the next generation of geneticists.
Program Structure
The program consists of 18 months in the laboratory at the sites listed above as well as a 4-week rotation in laboratory genetics and genomics and 4 weeks of metabolic clinics. In the remaining 6 months, fellows perform research with a research mentor and can complete electives at any of the rotation sites.
Additional Information
Contact Program Coordinator and Program Director (see information below).
Application Information
Apply to this program through the NIH Graduate Medical Education Application System. Candidates must have an M.D./D.O. degree and have completed an ACGME-accredited U.S. residency training program, preferably in Clinical Genetics, and have a valid, unrestricted U.S. license. Alternatively, candidates must have a Ph.D. degree in genetics, genomics, human genetics or a related field within the biological sciences.