Research Pathway
Clinical training and research opportunities for those who wish to specialize in rheumatic diseases.
The Research Pathway at Stanford Immunology & Rheumatology offers clinical training and research opportunities to physicians who wish to specialize in rheumatic diseases. The primary goal of the program is to prepare trainees for an academic career in either basic science or clinical research. Funding via our T32 training grant and/or additional sources is guaranteed for all additional years of research beyond the already funded initial 2 years of ACGME-accredited training in rheumatology.
First year
The first year of the Research Pathway is dedicated to providing clinical exposure to a broad spectrum of rheumatic diseases. Fellows spend the majority of the year rotating through the inpatient consult services and outpatient clinics at our three training sites under the supervision of attending physicians. In addition, fellows rotate through several Rheumatology subspecialty clinics such as the combined Rheum-Derm Clinic, Vasculitis Clinic, and the VA Women’s Rheumatology Clinic. All fellows receive training in musculoskeletal ultrasound.
A continuity clinic is maintained two half days per week throughout the first year of training. Fellows also participate in weekly didactic and research conferences.
Dr. Neha Shah, Program Director of the rheumatology fellowship, meets with each fellow regularly regarding their progress. Additionally, each fellow chooses a career mentor who advises them regarding their clinical and research training.
Second year and beyond
Beginning in the second year of the Research Pathway, fellows spend the majority of their time involved in research activities, with protected research time and 1 half-day continuity clinic per week. The Division of Immunology & Rheumatology offers an outstanding array of research opportunities in basic, clinical, and translational science supported by NIH training grants and other funding resources. This is done under the supervision of a mentor(s) who can be chosen from among the diverse and outstanding faculty within the Division, or from other Divisions and Departments at Stanford. Each fellow will continue to meet regularly with their career mentor to review and facilitate their progress.
Fellows in the Research Pathway typically spend 1-3 years as postdoctoral fellows in the program. The Division has an outstanding record of success in preparing and placing its trainees in prestigious faculty positions, public health careers, and industry.
More information about the Division of Immunology & Rheumatology research programs
