Pathology
Professor of Pathology
Residency Program Director for the Department of Pathology
Secondary Contact
Charles Timmons, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor of Pathology
charles.timmons@utsouthwestern.edu
Administrative Contact
Lakesha Jacobs
Administrative Associate
lakesha.jacobs@utsouthwestern.edu
About the Specialty
Pathology is a branch of medical science that is focused on the study and diagnosis of disease. Anatomic pathology involves the examination of surgically removed organs, tissues (biopsy samples), bodily fluids, and, in some cases, the whole body (autopsy). Clinical pathology involves the performance and interpretation of laboratory tests to aid clinicians in diagnosing diseases and formulating treatment.
Answers to Common Questions
- Attributes of a Competitive Student
What factors typically make a student competitive for this specialty?
Demonstrated interest in pathology via elective rotations, publications or research.
- Research
How important is research experience in your specialty? If important, does it need to be in the specialty itself?
It is very important and we strongly encourage it.
- Shadowing
How can students identify opportunities for shadowing?
They can discuss with faculty with whom they do electives.
- Electives
What electives would you recommend to a student who is interested in pursuing your specialty?
Either the two or four week pathology elective.
Based on your experience, what tips do you have for students to shine on your electives?
Be available, display interest.
- Away Rotations
Does your specialty recommend doing away rotations?
This is not really necessary.
If your specialty recommends doing away rotations, how many “aways” do you recommend?
It’s not necessary.
If away rotations are necessary, when should they apply and when should they be completed?
Not applicable
- Interview Timing
Which month do you recommend taking off to interview?
Most programs interview between early November and mid-January.
- Letters of Recommendation
How many letters of recommendation are needed to apply to your specialty?
A minimum of three (3) letters of recommendation.
Does your specialty recommend that all letters of recommendation be written by members of your specialty?
Recommend at least 1 or 2 by a pathologist.
If letters can come from other disciplines, do you have a recommendation as to which disciplines are more highly valued?
This does not really matter. If they student has done a PhD, we would recommend a letter from the PhD advisor.
Does the academic rank of the letter writer matter?
No
Does your specialty require a letter from the chairman?
No
Resources
- College of American Pathologists
- American Society for Clinical Pathology
- United States and Canadian Institute of Pathology
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