Program Overview

Molecular Genetic Pathology Fellowship

The Molecular Genetic Pathology Fellowship is a comprehensive program designed to train fellows in the principles of molecular genetic pathology.

Program Director and Coordinator

The program is directed by Kevin E. Fisher, M.D., Ph.D., and coordinated by Rosario Guzman.

Core Curriculum

The core curriculum includes training in the following areas:

• Molecular Oncology and Cancer Genomics: Fellows are trained to analyze, review, interpret, and assist in the sign-out of both traditional clinical molecular assays and clinical genomic tests.
• Genetics and Genomics of Inherited Disorders: Fellows receive training in the principles of genetic testing, covering more than a hundred Mendelian disorders using various techniques.
• Molecular Microbiology: Training covers principles of molecular testing for infectious diseases, including SARS-CoV2 testing and viral load monitoring.
• Laboratory Administration and Informatics: Fellows are trained in the principles required for Medical Directorship, including CAP/CLIA regulation, test validation, and clinical consultations.

Training Modules

The program includes the following training modules:

• Molecular Oncology and Cancer Genomics: Training sites include TCH Molecular Oncology Laboratory, TCH Clinical Genomics Laboratory, and MD Anderson Cancer Center Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory.
• Inherited Disorders: Training site is Baylor Genetics Laboratory.
• Molecular Microbiology: Training site is TCH Medical Microbiology and Virology Laboratory.

Courses and Workshops

The program includes the following courses and workshops:

• 'Dry-Labs' Applied Bioinformatics Course: An 8-week hands-on workshop to explore principles in applied bioinformatics and genomics.
• Human Genetics Course: A course in the principles of human genetics offered by the faculty in the BCM Department of Molecular and Human Genetics.
• Journal Club: Meetings are held monthly over the course of the fellowship year.
• Molecular Pathology Fellow Didactics: A multi-lecture didactic course covering all aspects of molecular genetic pathology.
• Molecular Genomics Tumor Board: Meetings are held monthly over the course of the fellowship year.
• Cytogenetic Case Conference: Conferences are held monthly over the course of the fellowship year.
• Genomic Medicine Division Case Conference: Conferences are held weekly over the course of the fellowship year.
• Neuropathology and Genomic Medicine Division Case Conference: Conferences are held weekly over the course of the fellowship year.

Weekly Conferences

Weekly conferences in pathology and genetics are included in the program.