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About the Fellowship

Join our one-year integrated clinical and research fellowship program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Department of Ophthalmology, led by Dr. Alice Zhang (surgical retina) and Dr. David Fleischman (glaucoma). For the past six years, this program has provided fellows with a unique opportunity to engage in clinical and translational research while being mentored by dedicated ophthalmologists. Eight out of nine of our past fellows have been successful in securing ophthalmology residencies (as of 2024).

This one-year program involves diverse research opportunities, as well as patient interaction in a clinical setting. Additionally, fellows will have the opportunity to shadow in the operating room and clinic. The fellow is expected to attend resident teaching and wet lab sessions.

Dr. Fleischman and Dr. Zhang are committed to mentoring fellows toward their career goals.  Fellows will receive support and guidance to prepare for their next steps, including sufficient time off for residency interviews.

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist with ongoing research projects.
  • Spearhead new research projects
  • Conduct database reviews and patient recruitment.
  • Engage in clinical interactions and patient care (2 days per week).
  • Attend departmental educational activities, resident teaching, and wet lab sessions.

Qualifications

  • Current medical student at a school graduating MDs and DOs
  • U.S. Permanent Resident or Citizen (we are unable to sponsor a visa application)
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team

Application Procedure

1)  One 12-month gap year position: (July – June of the following year).

    • Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis through February of the start year of the fellowship.
      Interested candidates should email UNC_Ophtho@med.unc.edu with a brief personal statement outlining their goals for the research year and a copy of their CV.

2) One reapplicant medical student position: (March/April – April of the following year)

Interested candidates should email UNC_Ophtho@med.unc.edu with a brief personal statement of their goals for the research year. Please specify reasons for not matching and how this research fellowship may be a good fit for goals in medicine. If the student applied to UNC through the SF match, please indicate the SF Match ID#; otherwise, please forward the CAS application. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until two weeks after Match Day.

** Please note that applications are now closed for 2024-2025 positions. **

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity in the workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.