The ACGME-accredited biochemical genetics clinical laboratory fellowship prepares individuals with a doctoral degree (PhD, MD or DO) to direct operations of an accredited biochemical genetics laboratory and to conduct academic research as it relates to clinical laboratory testing. Fellows may complete the American Board of Medical Genetics’ General Genetics and Clinical Biochemical Genetics examinations.
The Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH) and the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Genetics and Metabolism are recruiting one applicant for the Biochemical Genetics fellowship. This two year training program is designed to teach skills necessary to direct operations of an accredited biochemical genetics laboratory as well as conduct academic research as related to clinical laboratory testing. This program is offered in collaboration with the Wisconsin Newborn Screening Laboratory. This unique relationship is intended to provide a comprehensive learning environment, exposing training fellows to the field of biochemical genetics and its interface with newborn screening. Additional information regarding testing in the biochemical genetics and newborn screening laboratories can be found at: www.slh.wisc.edu
Our rigorous, comprehensive curriculum offers:
- Diverse clinical laboratory experiences that foster inter-professional relationships across campus and affiliate sites with faculty and staff;
- Relevant research opportunities that encourage critical thinking, connecting and solving complex challenges in genetic research while contributing to the knowledge base of the profession; and
- An environment that promotes socially responsible practice in serving the public and medical profession assuring standards of excellence in genetics.
Clinical Biochemical Genetics Laboratory Experience
Fellows will:
- Master clinical biochemical genetics testing techniques, recognize and interpret metabolic aberrations and disease profiles, and initiate complementary studies as indicated.
- Master technologies used in newborn screening laboratory to identify patients at risk for metabolic conditions.
- Understand the role of the screening laboratory and its relationship to the clinical diagnostic laboratory.
- Interpret and communicate test results in clear, understandable language for referring physicians, healthcare providers, and patients.
- Identify, reach out, and interact collaboratively with key stakeholders who contribute to various faucets of the newborn screening program, local, state, and federal levels.
- Understanding the impact of ethical, legal, social issues on public health policy surrounding newborn screening.
- Collaborate productively with clinical colleagues.
- Collaborate with Molecular Genetics and Cytogenetics laboratories and other referral laboratories as needed.
- Become acquainted with quality assurance procedures including CAP/ CLIA accreditation and monitoring of key quality indicators for both the biochemical genetics and newborn screening laboratories.
- Identify laboratory management strategies and fiscal issues of directing a laboratory within the climate of managed care.
- Master appropriate processing of all human specimens for biochemical/molecular analysis and to recognize the requirements for safe handling of specimens.
Research Experience
- Learn, in the context of the entire training program, how to initiate independent and/or collaborative research.
Teaching Experience
- Become a capable instructor for teaching and training at all levels.