Program Overview and Objectives

The Postdoctoral Fellowship in Advanced Clinical Biochemistry at RML Academy of Laboratory Medicine is a one-year specialized program designed to offer comprehensive, in-depth training in clinical biochemistry for medical professionals with an MD or DNB in Biochemistry. This fellowship equips participants with advanced expertise in diagnostic biochemistry, cutting-edge laboratory technologies, and the clinical interpretation of biochemical investigations.

The curriculum places a strong emphasis on laboratory management, quality assurance, and the application of modern biochemical techniques. Fellows will also explore the pivotal role of clinical biochemistry in patient care, contributing to the accurate diagnosis, monitoring, and management of a wide spectrum of diseases.

Training Period

The Postdoctoral Fellowship in Advanced Clinical Biochemistry is structured as a one-year program. The duration provides ample time for fellows to acquire expertise in both theoretical and practical aspects of clinical biochemistry, through hands-on training, seminars, and clinical case discussions.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Advanced Clinical Biochemistry, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• MD or DNB in Biochemistry or equivalent qualification from a recognized medical institution.
• A solid foundation in clinical biochemistry, with an interest in the advanced diagnostic techniques used in clinical laboratory settings.
• Prior experience in laboratory work or clinical biochemistry is preferable, but not mandatory.
• A valid medical license to practice in India or abroad.
• Candidates with a background in metabolic disorders, laboratory medicine, or research in clinical biochemistry will be given preference.

Course Outline

The syllabus for the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Advanced Clinical Biochemistry covers a comprehensive range of topics, with both practical and theoretical components. Key subjects include:

Introduction to Clinical Biochemistry

• Overview of clinical biochemistry and its role in diagnostics.
• Principles of clinical biochemistry and laboratory techniques.
• Interpretation of biochemical tests and clinical correlation

Biochemical Markers in Disease

• Markers for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, renal disorders, liver function, and endocrine disorders.
• Tumor markers and their diagnostic and prognostic roles.
• Biomarkers for infectious diseases and inflammatory conditions.

Metabolic Disorders and Their Biochemical Basis

• Inborn errors of metabolism and their biochemical tests.
• Diagnosis of metabolic diseases using biochemical assays.
• Biochemical aspects of mitochondrial diseases and rare genetic disorders.

Advanced Techniques in Clinical Biochemistry

• High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC), and mass spectrometry (MS).
• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) and immunochemistry techniques.
• Application of automated analyzers and point-of-care testing.

Molecular Diagnostics and Genetic Testing

• PCR and real-time PCR in clinical biochemistry.
• Molecular techniques for diagnosing genetic disorders and metabolic diseases.
• Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and its application in clinical biochemistry.

Clinical Biochemistry in Critical Care

• Biochemical aspects of critical care medicine.
• Role of biochemistry in trauma, sepsis, and organ failure.
• Biochemical tests for monitoring and treatment of critically ill patients.

Quality Control and Laboratory Management

• Principles of quality control and assurance in clinical biochemistry laboratories.
• Laboratory accreditation and standards.
• Management of laboratory operations, safety protocols, and patient data handling.

Research in Clinical Biochemistry

• Application of research methodologies to clinical biochemistry.
• Review of recent advancements in biochemistry and their clinical applications.
• Writing research papers and clinical case studies.

Subspecialty Postings

Fellows will have exposure to various specialized postings, including:

• Endocrine Biochemistry: Focus on biochemical tests for thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive hormones, and their clinical interpretation.
• Renal Biochemistry: Specialization in biochemical tests related to kidney function, electrolytes, and renal disorders.
• Cardiovascular Biochemistry: Study of biomarkers related to heart diseases, lipid metabolism, and atherosclerosis.
• Gastrointestinal Biochemistry: Emphasis on liver function tests, gastrointestinal enzymes, and metabolic diseases related to digestion.
• Metabolic and Genetic Biochemistry: Exposure to metabolic disorders, genetic testing, and novel biochemical approaches in diagnosis.
• Research and Development: Training in the development and application of new biochemical assays, techniques, and laboratory protocols.

Selection Process

Candidates for the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Advanced Clinical Biochemistry will be selected based on:

• Academic qualifications (MD/DNB in Biochemistry or equivalent).
• Previous experience or training in clinical biochemistry (preferred but not mandatory).
• A personal interview to assess knowledge, interest, and motivation for advanced training in clinical biochemistry.
• Letters of recommendation from academic mentors or prior employers.
• No age limit

Successful Completion Requisites

To successfully complete the fellowship, fellows must:

• Attend at least 75% of the lectures, seminars, and clinical discussions.
• Complete clinical rotations in all assigned specialty areas and demonstrate hands-on competence in biochemical laboratory techniques.
• Achieve satisfactory evaluations based on performance in practical work, seminars, and written exams.
• Submit a research paper, clinical case study, or project related to clinical biochemistry.
• Successfully complete the final assessment exam (Theory and viva by external Faculty) that evaluates theoretical knowledge and practical skills in clinical biochemistry.