A broad range of postdoctoral training opportunities are available, including basic research experience, clinical genetic training, and diagnostic laboratory training. There are approximately 109 postdoctoral trainees in the laboratories of the training faculty, most of whom are pursuing research training without clinical involvement. D. fellows come to the program with the goal of meeting the requirements of the A.B.M.G. and obtaining research training in genetics. The clinical training includes 8 to 18 months of full-time participation in the consultation service, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic activities. D. fellows is devoted to a research project.
Research projects range from relatively clinical to very basic.
The research opportunities available are best ascertained by reviewing the research descriptions of the individual faculty members. Although only two years are required for completion of A.B.M.G. training, a large percentage of fellows choose to continue research for a third year and occasionally beyond. In recent years, fellows who have completed training in cardiology, neurology, immunology, and other clinical disciplines have pursued research training in the department. Three or four fellows seeking clinical certification are accepted each year, with some individuals seeking additional certification in biochemical genetics, cytogenetics, or molecular genetics. Commitments for positions are ordinarily made 12 to 24 months prior to the start date, and occasionally later.