Each of the laboratories in the Division of Laboratory Genetics at Mayo Clinic provides testing for a wide range of constitutional genetic disorders using a variety of platforms. In addition, the genetics laboratory offers numerous tests in the areas of hematology and oncology genetics. Test volumes in each laboratory are large and are rapidly increasing.

Our fellows also are able to interact with consultants in other laboratories and clinical departments, such as experimental pathology, hematology, hematopathology, medical genomics, neurology, obstetrics and pediatrics.

Clinical training

Casework involves working closely with board-certified clinical biochemical geneticists and genetic counselors. The typical fellowship experience includes:

• Collection and review of appropriate clinical and pedigree information from the referring clinician
• Review of technical work performed
• Scoring and interpretation of results
• Performing risk calculations (when applicable)
• Generation of the interpretive test report
• Subsequent follow-up with the referring clinician

Rotation schedule

Didactic training

Didactic training is provided by formal lectures, case conferences, seminars and journal reviews. Additionally, enrollment in Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences courses may be required, depending upon your previous training and experience.

For certification by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG) in clinical biochemical genetics, a general genetics examination together with the specialty examination must be taken. Fellowship programs at Mayo Clinic provide the required training in all aspects of medical genetics (clinical genetics, molecular genetics, cytogenetics, biochemical genetics and genetic counseling).

The training encompasses a broad range of topics and expertise, including:

• Molecular, cytogenetic and biochemical etiology and pathogenesis of human genetic diseases
• Laboratory diagnosis and carrier detection of a broad range of genetic disorders and malignancies using a range of state-of-the-art molecular techniques
• Risk calculations, including Bayesian analysis and calculations for linkage analyses
• Genetic counseling of disorders diagnosed by laboratory methods
• Technical problems, potential pitfalls and laboratory quality control and assurance procedures

Practical laboratory experience

Each genetics laboratory is fully equipped for diagnostic and research work. You have ample opportunity for involvement in research projects and the development of new clinical tests. In addition, you review quality control and quality assurance procedures, and participate in preparing the laboratory for certification inspections by on-site reviewers from the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and New York State.

Clinical assay development and research

Clinical testing at Mayo Clinic benefits from active research and development programs. Developmental activities in the Division of Laboratory Genetics are focused on improving current test strategies and introducing new genetic tests. All approved tests meet rigid validation standards that include a thorough evaluation of methodology and clinical utility.

Research programs combine the expertise and experience of Mayo Clinic scientists to advance the field of genetics and genetic testing.

Teaching opportunities

In all Mayo Clinic genetic fellowships, you have the opportunity to teach other laboratory genetics fellows, pathology residents and fellows, laboratory technologists, and visiting students from other medical schools through bench instruction and formal didactic lectures.

Evaluation

To ensure that you acquire adequate knowledge and develop the appropriate technical skills to meet program expectations, your performance is monitored carefully during the Clinical Biochemical Genetics Fellowship. You are formally evaluated by your supervising faculty members on a regular basis and meet with the program director to review these evaluations. In addition, you evaluate the faculty to confirm that your educational goals are being met.