Program Overview and Objectives

The Postdoctoral Fellowship in Surgical Pathology at RML Academy of Laboratory Medicine is designed to provide specialized training for doctors holding MD/DNB degrees in Pathology. The course focuses on advanced diagnostic techniques, enhancing the understanding of both routine and complex pathological conditions, with particular emphasis on surgical pathology.

This program aims to develop proficient pathologists capable of performing comprehensive and accurate pathological evaluations, interpreting findings, and contributing to critical decision-making in clinical settings. The fellowship includes practical experience with a variety of specimen types, state of art diagnostic tools, and case discussions to foster a deep understanding of surgical pathology.

Training Period

The Postdoctoral Fellowship in Surgical Pathology is a one-year intensive program that provides extensive hands-on training and exposure to a wide range of surgical pathology cases. The duration is structured to allow fellows to gain proficiency and expertise in the core areas of surgical pathology.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Surgical Pathology, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

  • Must hold an MD or DNB degree in Pathology from a recognized medical institution.
  • Must have a strong foundation in general pathology, with interest or prior exposure to surgical pathology.
  • Candidates with prior fellowship or work experience in a relevant field may be given preference.
  • A valid medical license to practice in India or abroad.
  • No age limit.

Course Outline

The syllabus of the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Surgical Pathology is designed to cover key areas of surgical pathology. It includes:

Introduction to Surgical Pathology

  • Basic principles of surgical pathology
  • Surgical specimen processing and tissue handling
  • Histopathology techniques and staining methods

System-Specific Pathology

  • Head and neck pathology
  • Thoracic pathology
  • Gastrointestinal pathology
  • Genitourinary pathology
  • Breast pathology
  • Endocrine pathology
  • Soft tissue pathology

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques

  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Molecular pathology
  • Cytogenetics and FISH
  • Digital pathology

Case Discussions and Seminars

  • Weekly case discussions with senior pathologists
  • Journal clubs and pathology seminars
  • Participation in tumor boards and multidisciplinary case discussions
  • Clinical Correlation and Integration

    • Understanding clinical contexts and applying pathological findings in patient management

    Subspecialty Postings

    Throughout the fellowship, candidates will have exposure to various subspecialties in surgical pathology. These postings will include:

    • Gastrointestinal Pathology: Focus on diseases of the gastrointestinal system, including neoplastic and non-neoplastic disorders.
    • Breast Pathology: Study of benign and malignant conditions affecting the breast.
    • Genitourinary Pathology: Exploration of diseases of the urinary tract, kidneys, and male and female genital systems.
    • Head and Neck Pathology: Focus on cancers and non-cancerous conditions affecting the head and neck region.
    • Soft Tissue and Bone Pathology: Study of musculoskeletal system diseases, including neoplasms.

    Selection Process

    Candidates for the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Surgical Pathology will be selected based on:

    • Academic qualifications (MD/DNB in Pathology).
    • Prior work experience in pathology or relevant areas.
    • Personal interview, including technical and clinical problem-solving skills.
    • Letters of recommendation from previous employers or academic mentors.

    Successful Completion Requisites

    To successfully complete the Postdoctoral Fellowship, fellows must:

    • Attend a minimum of 75% of the lectures, seminars, and case discussions.
    • Complete hands-on training and clinical rotations in all assigned specialties.
    • Demonstrate competence in handling surgical pathology cases, interpreting pathology reports, and reporting findings.
    • Submit a research project or a clinical case study at the end of the fellowship program.
    • Achieve a satisfactory evaluation from the faculty, based on continuous assessment and final exams (Theory and viva by external Faculty).
Financial and Administrative Guidelines
  • Accommodation: No accommodation
  • Additional Costs: Fellows will be required to cover their own costs for travel, insurance, and personal expenses.
  • Certificate of Completion: Upon successful completion of the program, fellows will receive a certificate issued by RML Academy of Laboratory Medicine, acknowledging their advanced training in Surgical Pathology.
Stipend

Fellows will receive a stipend to cover their living expenses during the course of the fellowship. The stipend amount is 50,000.

Course fee

The total fees for the one-year Postdoctoral Fellowship in Surgical Pathology are 1,20,000 INR + 18% GST. This includes access to course materials, laboratory fees, and other administrative costs.