Molecular Diagnostics Fellowship Program

Molecular Genetic Pathology Environment

The Molecular Genetic Pathology Fellow is based in the Division of Molecular Genetic Pathology (MGP). MGO is the primary clinical testing site for DNA and RNA-based assays in the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Health System. The Division offers by itself and in conjunction with the Molecular Anatomic Pathology group a range of clinical assays in the areas of inherited diseases (genetics), infectious diseases, and oncology (hematologic and solid tumor). Approximately 25,000 tests are performed annually.

MDX has an assortment of state-of-the-art instruments which are used in assay performance or evaluation; these include automated DNA sequencers, capillary electrophoresis instruments, quantitative PCR equipment, multiple thermal cyclers, spectrophotometers, fluorescent plate readers, power supplies and gel apparatuses.

The Division is located on the 7th floor of Scaife Hall, in contiguity with Presbyterian University Hospital. The Department's special hematology and flow cytometry laboratories are located on the same floor, along with the Molecular Anatomic Pathology and a variety of basic research laboratories. There is a particularly close working relationship with the Division of Hematopathology. The surgical and cytopathology areas, neuropathology, hematopathology, and microbiology areas are located on adjacent floors in close proximity. The Division currently occupies ~5,000 square feet of space with additional developmental space for clinical and anatomic pathology assays. The fellow is provided office space with a computer that has access to the Department and Division LIS as well as the internet.