Forensic Fellowship

Program Description

The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Brody School of Medicine offers an ACGME-accredited one-year fellowship in forensic pathology in an office with three board certified forensic pathologists working in the Eastern Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, part of the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The catchment area of approximately 25 counties provides a wide range of experience. In 2022, the office performed 641 medical examiner autopsies, and 425 external examinations.

The fellowship provides extensive training in the forensic determination of cause and manner of death, death investigation, courtroom testimony, as well as familiarization with ancillary disciplines. Through East Carolina University and ECU Health Medical Center, the department has on-site expertise for consultation in forensic neuropathology, physical anthropology, dentistry, surgical pathology, and clinical consultation, as well as associated allied disciplines. Criminalistics familiarization is provided through the local police department, and there is local training in firearms.

External rotations in areas of interest are available (forensic toxicology, forensic odontology, forensic anthropology, etc). Arrangements have been made through the local District Attorney to provide focused experience in the litigation side of forensics if the fellow wishes. Opportunities exist for participation in a number of conferences, teaching and collaborative research projects. Faculty in this program have expertise in pattern injury analysis and image processing, cardiac pathology, and Sudden Infant Death.

Requirements

Applicants must possess an M.D. or D.O. degree and must have completed the pathology residency requirements. Full licensure to practice medicine in North Carolina is required.

Stipends

The stipend is that of a comparable year resident at ECU Health Medical Center and competitive with others in the region. Benefit package includes institution and resident cost share for major medical health insurance, major medical health insurance for dependents, outpatient mental health insurance, group life insurance, dental insurance, and disability insurance. Costs associated with travel to ancillary trainings will also be offered.

Additional Information/Application