Laboratory Genetics and Genomics Fellowship

The Henry Ford Pathology and Laboratory Medicine offers a two-year fellowship program in Laboratory Genetics and Genomics (LGG), which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). Successful completion of this fellowship program makes candidates eligible for certification by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG).

Mission Statement

The primary mission of the LGG program is to provide comprehensive and in-depth exposure to Laboratory Genetics and Genomics, focusing on clinical correlation, disease mechanisms, and investigational opportunities. By offering access to cytogenetic and molecular genetic testing, we aim to serve the diverse Michigan community by delivering precise and personalized results. Through these efforts, our program contributes to the overarching mission of Henry Ford Hospital to enhance people's lives through excellence in healthcare and healing.

Program Description

The fellowship program offers an integrated training experience that encompasses both clinical cytogenetics and clinical molecular genetics as a cohesive primary specialty. Fellows have dedicated rotations in Henry Ford Hospital Cytogenomic and Molecular Genetics laboratories, where they gain exposure to both constitutional and somatic genetics. Additionally, the fellowship training includes graduate-level courses in human genetics, didactic sessions, active participation in clinical case sign-out, training in laboratory bench work, and involvement in medical genetics clinics and teaching conferences.

Program Aims

• Educate fellows on the fundamental principles of cytogenetics and molecular genetics as applied to diagnostic testing.
• Provide hands-on experience with the major techniques employed in both specialties.
• Offer training in both traditional cytogenetic methods and advanced molecular cytogenomic techniques.
• Instruct fellows on the significant clinical indications for testing and the clinical implications of test results, working with a variety of sample types including peripheral blood, fibroblasts, amniotic fluids, chorionic villi, hematology-oncology specimens, and solid tumors.
• Familiarize fellows with constitutional syndromes, principles of prenatal diagnosis, and cancer cytogenetics.
• Assist fellows in developing effective communication skills necessary for interacting with healthcare professionals and patients.
• Foster an understanding of the various issues in quality assurance relevant to the management of a diagnostic laboratory.
• Promote awareness and appreciation of ethical considerations involved in the practice of clinical cytogenetics.

Additionally, the program aims to provide exceptional, patient-centered clinical genetic testing with an emphasis on safety. It aims to develop highly skilled clinical laboratory geneticists who are committed to lifelong learning and scholarly pursuits, benefiting patient health and their families. The program also focuses on cultivating compassionate clinical laboratory geneticists, fostering diversity in perspectives and backgrounds, and promoting an environment that encourages trainees' initiative and prioritizes wellness.

Requirements

The LGG program accepts one candidate every year. Eligible applicants should hold a PhD in genetics or a related field and/or an MD degree with residency in pathology or medical genetics. Individuals with a doctoral degree earned outside the U.S., Canada, or Puerto Rico must have their degree reviewed and approved by the ABMGG Credentials Committee before applying to the training program.

Applications

Applications must be submitted by September 15th of the current year, and interviews will be granted based on the review of the application package.

Materials Required for Application

• Letter of Interest/Personal Statement
• Candidate’s CV (Curriculum Vitae)
• Transcripts
• Three Letters of Recommendation addressed to Dr. Brandon Shaw, PhD, FACMG

To Apply

Please send all application materials to:

Nathan Schoenfeld
Henry Ford Hospital - Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Residency & Fellowship Program Coordinator
Email: nschoen1@hfhs.org

For more information, please contact Nathan Schoenfeld at nschoen1@hfhs.org or call 313-916-7389.