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RESPONSIBILITIES

Our fellows gain first-hand experience in the conduct of research, including study design and management, scientific writing, and cross-cultural and interdisciplinary collaboration. Responsibilities include:

  • Leadership of ongoing research projects
  • Development of new research ideas and protocols
  • Publication of peer-reviewed manuscripts
  • Teaching of students and other trainees in the U.S. and affiliated institutions abroad
  • Clinical care at affiliated sites

Applicants choose a concentration in one of many ongoing emphasis areas: HIV and pregnancy, women’s cancers, and reproductive health. Based on these interests and departmental needs, fellows are matched accordingly with mentors, projects, and sites.

We employ a standardized checklist for core skills and fellowship milestones in project implementation, scientific writing, and results dissemination. Fellows complete individualized mentorship plans to outline their immediate and long-term career goals; this is used regularly to guide professional development. For experienced fellows, we also provide intensive mentorship in grant writing, including for career development awards from the US National Institutes of Health (K series) and/or private foundations.

QUALIFICATIONS, SALARY AND BENEFITS

The duration of the fellowship is typically 2-3 years, depending on the candidate’s prior experience. Applicants must be willing to relocate to either Lusaka, Lilongwe, or Johannesburg. Although our program has traditionally focused on OB-GYN physicians, we have expanded this opportunity to PhD postdoctoral fellows and medical doctors with aligned research interests from other disciplines. Candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Stipends are based on NIH system for postgraduate trainees.

Beginning in 2018, we offer a global health track for trainees in other OB-GYN subspecialty fellowships at UNC. Candidates will live and work overseas for 12 months and then remain engaged in research activities in Chapel Hill as they complete their clinical fellowship requirements. This is coordinated with other divisions in the UNC Department of OB-GYN.

APPLICATION

Interested candidates are asked to submit the following information to be considered:

  • A current biosketch in NIH format
  • Three letters of recommendation, including one from your current program director or department chair
  • A one-page personal statement describing your research interests and how they relate to global women’s health. This should summarize: prior experience in public health and research, desired training, and long-term career goals (including how this fellowship will help you to fulfill them).

Our deadline for the upcoming academic year has been extended to Sunday, October 1, 2023. Application materials can be submitted on our online portal. We will interview short-listed candidates shortly thereafter.