The Clinical Microbiology Postgraduate Fellowships draw trainees from across the U.S. and around the world. While all our trainees have a love of learning and a compassionate approach to patient care, they come from diverse backgrounds, family status, and professional and personal interests. Meet our current fellows and learn about their experiences in the program.

Clinical Microbiology ACGME fellow

Abdulaziz Almulhim, M.B.B.S.

2026-2027
Medical School: University of Dammam in Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Residency: University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA

Background: Dr. Abdulaziz Almulhim is originally from Dammam, Saudi Arabia. He obtained his doctorate in medicine from the University of Dammam in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. He completed residency training at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia, followed by a fellowship in Infectious Diseases at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. In his spare time, he enjoys running, bouldering, reading fiction, cooking, and watching television and movies.

What drew you to the program? When looking into Medical Microbiology programs to join, it was immediately apparent that Mayo's fellowship was by far the most rigorous and well-organized program in the country. This, in addition to having access to a world-class laboratory that serves patients all around the world led by some of the world experts in Microbiology, made this a straight-forward decision. I am confident that the next year will prepare me well for the next chapter of my career as I hope to become a Microbiology expert back home in Saudi Arabia.

Clinical Microbiology CPEP fellows

Adeeba Dhalech, Ph.D.

First year fellow
Graduate school: Indiana University in Indianapolis, IN

Background: Dr. Adeeba Dhalech is originally from Kolkata, India and is a graduate of the University of Calcutta. She obtained her doctorate in medicine from Indiana University in Indianapolis, Indiana and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Stanford University in Stanford, California. In her spare time, she enjoys baking, tweaking recipes, and exploring new places and cultures.

Why did you chose Mayo Clinic for your fellowship? I was drawn to the Clinical Microbiology Ph.D. Fellowship Program at Mayo Clinic because of its outstanding reputation in laboratory medicine. My mentors spoke highly of its training and success in preparing fellows for careers in clinical microbiology. Mayo Clinic stood out for its high case volume, diverse case mix, and state-of-the-art reference laboratory, offering opportunities to develop diagnostic expertise, consultative skills, and clinical judgment. These strengths make it an ideal environment for my professional growth and future career in clinical microbiology.

Christina Cox, Ph.D.

Second year fellow
Graduate school: University of Cincinnati in Cincinnati, OH

Background: Dr. Christina Cox is originally from Valparaiso, Indiana, and earned her Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati, OH. Over the years she has had the opportunity to live in several cities, including Indianapolis, IN, Morgantown, WV and Nashville, TN. Outside of work, she is an avid reader. She is passionate about teaching yoga, spending time outdoors, and being with family and friends. Professionally, she enjoys learning about all areas of the clinical laboratory.

Why did you chose Mayo Clinic for your fellowship? I chose the Mayo Clinic for my clinical microbiology fellowship because it stood out among all other programs. As a large medical facility and a reference laboratory for hospitals nationwide, the Mayo Clinic offers numerous learning opportunities that will support my professional growth. Completing my fellowship here will also give me the chance to learn from some of the most respected experts in the clinical microbiology community. The consultants who oversee the fellowship have spent years refining their expertise, publishing book chapters, and conducting impactful research. This fellowship represents a valuable opportunity for me to deepen my knowledge and become more actively engaged in the microbiology community.

Mayo Fellows Association (MFA)

The Mayo Fellows Association (MFA) offers a peer and social support network for residents and fellows and their families with social events, athletics, and advocacy. The MFA also holds an annual resident and fellow appreciation event open to all trainees with complimentary massages, stress-reducing activities, and social support.