How to Apply

If you are interested in applying to the Medical Microbiology Fellowship Program, please send or email to Donna Palmer a cover letter, CAP Standardized Pathology Fellowship Application, current curriculum vitae, personal statement, medical school Dean’s letter, three letters of recommendation that include one from the Director of your Residency Program and two additional faculty, USMLE scores (steps 1, 2, and 3), copy of ECFMG certificate (applies to international medical graduates only), copy of Permanent Visa (if applicable), and copy of medical school diploma.

Applications will be accepted until fellowship position(s) are filled.

Priority Deadline

Applications are accepted in on an ongoing, rolling basis until fellowship positions are filled for any given fellowship year. Typically we begin to review applications approximately 18 months prior to the fellowship start date. Applications will continue to be accepted until fellowship positions are filled.

Eligibility for Fellowship

Priority will be given to applicants with certification in clinical pathology (successful completion of ACGME-accredited training program in CP, AP/CP).  Trainees with infectious diseases or other relevant background who intend to pursue a career including laboratory directorship will also be considered.

Certification Requirements

Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process which serves multiple purposes for the trainee and the public.

Certification is

  • one mission of the training program to produce trainees who meet board eligibility criteria;
  • distinguishes a physician as someone with a distinct level of expertise;
  • provides more opportunities when applying for employment;
  • a commitment to life-long improvement for providing the best patient care; and
  • elevates physicians into the ranks of doctors committed to the highest standards of healthcare.

For more information visit the American Board of Pathology for specifics on board certification requirements.

The Interview

We will interview about 3-4 candidates for 1 position beginning in late September and ending by mid-March. Orientation for all new fellows begins on July 1, so you must be available for that start date and be licensed in Iowa by June 30.

I got an interview! Now what?

What should I expect the night before my interview?

The Fellowship Program Director and one or two additional faculty will join the candidate for dinner around 6 PM. Dress in casual attire but remember to bring/wear a coat/jacket appropriate for the weather.

This dinner is an opportunity for you to meet the faculty and have them answer any questions you may have. Don’t be shy about asking about the things that are on your mind.

What should I expect on the interview day?

The fellowship coordinator will meet you around 8:30 a.m. at the fountain entrance of the hospital and will escort you to your first interview. We suggest business attire for your interview day.

The components of your day will include: an overview of the fellowship program, individual meetings with the Head of the Pathology Department, Vice Chair of Educational Affairs, faculty and fellow(s) within the division. If there is a specific person you would like to visit with please let us know and we will try our best to accommodate your request.