Program Overview

Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology Fellowship

The Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology Fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is a comprehensive two-year program that provides hands-on clinical experience and individualized instruction from nationally known physicians and investigators in a collegial environment.

Fellowship Experience

The program offers superior clinical immunology and rheumatology training in a collaborative environment, with specialty clinics across the medical campus. Fellows train at UAB Hospital, the eighth largest public hospital in the nation, as well as the Birmingham VA Medical Center, UAB Hospital Highlands campus, The Kirklin Clinic, and Children's Hospital of Alabama.

Clinical Rotations

During the two-year training period, fellows complete comprehensive clinical immunology and rheumatology training, with mandatory and elective rotations. The first year provides a solid foundation of knowledge and clinical experience, while the second year allows for more flexibility and additional time for scholarly activity and electives.

• Clinical rotations include:
  • Inpatient consult service at UAB
  • Faculty clinics with expertise in different clinical subspecialties, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and musculoskeletal ultrasound
  • Orthopedics/physical medicine and rehabilitation medicine
  • Pain clinic
  • Pediatric rheumatology

Teaching Conferences

The training program provides significant opportunities for teaching, with fellows expected to help train and teach residents and students rotating through the consult service. Fellows also present and discuss cases at conferences and deliver lectures to medical students on basic or clinical immunology and rheumatology topics.

Research Opportunities

Research is an essential part of the training program, with fellows required to find a mentor and begin working on projects during their first year. Research time increases significantly during the second year, with fellows expected to devote approximately 70% effort to their research projects. The research program in the division is strongly supported by over $20 million in federal and non-federal grants.

Application Requirements

To apply, the following documents are required:

• Current CV (updated within 3 months)
• Medical School Transcripts (and diploma if requested)
• Medical School Dean's Letter
• Three total Letters of Recommendation (including former program directors)
• Certificate/verification from previous residency training
• Must be eligible for Alabama Medical License and Alabama Controlled Substance Certificate (all step scores completed at the time of application)
• Must be eligible for Federal DEA registration
• Valid ECFMG Certificate (IMG only)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What will I need to apply? (See application requirements above)
• Are there work requirements to train at the VA? Yes, fellows must meet eligibility requirements for training at the VA.
• What are the current vaccination requirements? Vaccinations are required based on CDC recommendations for Health Care Workers.
• What are the salaries and benefits for fellows? The program provides benefits and insurance plans available to all fellows at UAB.
• What is the cost of living in Birmingham? Birmingham offers a vibrant urban lifestyle at a cost that's approximately 9% below the national average.
• Is there a minimum USMLE score required? No, there is no minimum USMLE score requirement.
• What are the key program dates for applications? Applications open in June and close in May, with interviews beginning in September and Match Day in November.
• Do you sponsor H1B or J1 Visas? Yes, the division can sponsor these visas.