Research Training

UCSF has a strong tradition of robust research training for fellows. Since 1964, our graduates have gone on to illustrious careers in leadership positions within academics and industry, including Endocrine Society presidents, Division Chiefs and industry heads.   

Academic Track: Fellows in the academic track spend the 2nd and 3rd year of training focused predominantly on research. Fellows have a wide variety of research mentors and projects to choose from, ranging from both within UCSF and beyond. Plans for research training and selection of mentors are discussed with the Program Director, Career Mentors and endocrine faculty during the 1st year of fellowship.   Fellows can choose from a wide variety of research, including, basic, translational clinical and epidemiological; they also have the option to enter into a formal clinical informatics program during their research years.    

Formal training in research is available for those interested. These range from the Training in Clinical Research Workshop to 2-year pathways (Advanced Training in Clinical Research) which can lead to a Master’s degree. Fellows interested in basic science research receive practical training the laboratory of an established investigator, supplemented by formal courses in cell/molecular biology, genetics, immunology, biochemistry or other topics offered through the UCSF graduate programs (i.e., the Biomedical Sciences Program or the Program in Biological Sciences).  

Our fellows have an excellent record of receiving competitive grant funding during and after training, including NIH K-awards, VA Career Development Awards, or similar career development awards from national organizations.  

Clinical Track: Fellows in the clinical track spend 4-6 months dedicated to scholarly activities. This includes leading quality improvement projects as well as exposure to focused clinical and/or epidemiological research at the VA Medical Center. The broad exposure is to different aspects of careers in endocrinology enhances skills and expertise, and is appreciated by our trainees.