The Leadership and Innovation Fellowship Training (LIFT) Program in Urology at the University of California, Irvine is an intensive one-year program that provides up to two medical students with unparalleled training and experience in urologic research. Students will be able to participate in innovative basic science, translational, and clinical research projects throughout their fellowship year. To facilitate this experience, LIFT scholars are paired with mentors from the Department of Urology’s world-class team of faculty who will train the students in the clinic and operating room. Additionally, LIFT scholars receive focused training in leadership through the UC Irvine Department of Urology mentorship program. The LIFT program gives scholars the opportunity to form lasting relationships within the urology field and kick starts their own journeys in becoming innovative surgical leaders in their own right.
LIFT scholar responsibilities include the following:
- Design and submit study protocols
- Prepare abstracts and manuscripts
- Present research at regional, national, and international meetings
- Assist with medical supplier training courses (e.g.Cook Medical Advanced Vista Training Course for PCNL) and High School Outreach programs
- Interact with UC Irvine Urology program director and residents
During their fellowship year, LIFT scholars have the opportunity to attend multiple professional urology conferences, including the World Congress of Endourology, the Western Section of the AUA meeting, and the annual meeting of the AUA. Previous LIFT scholars have averaged a total of six publications during their fellowship year and have had their work featured on the cover of the Journal of Urology.
Virtual reality model for preoperative surgical planning
All LIFT scholars have access to the Department of Urology’s state-of-the-art laboratory and surgical skills center and are encouraged to take advantage of these resources. Some of the simulators and models available for use in the surgical skills lab include a Da Vinci robot, MIMIC robotic simulator, Simbionix LAP mentor, Simbionix URO mentor, Simbionix PERC mentor, several laparoscopic box trainers, pelvic models, ureteroscopy trainers, and iPad-based laparoscopic trainers. LIFT scholars actively participate in data collection in the operating room and urology clinic. LIFT scholars at the end of their fellowship year rotate with the Department of Urology to gain invaluable clinical experience alongside world-class faculty.
Application Instructions:
*** Please visit the “apply now” tab and to see application instructions.
Important Dates:
January 27th, 2025 (tentative): All application materials are due, no exceptions. If all materials are not received by this date the application will not be considered for acceptance into the fellowship.
February 2025: Interviews of selected applicants will be conducted via teleconference. Options will be available for in-state applicants to visit UCI for their interview.
March 2025: Offers of acceptances will be extended to two medical students. All other applicants will be placed on a wait list.
Fellowship Start and End Dates: July 1st, 2025 – July 1st, 2026
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