Prepare for a lifetime career or obtain your specialized training in the field of Forensic Pathology at the
Medical University of South Carolina in beautiful Charleston. The ACGME accredited one-year training is
offered to one applicant each academic year. It is a full-time program that is located within an academic
medical center where extensive pathology specialist support is available. Trainees are responsible under
supervision for scene investigations, post-mortem external examinations, autopsies (approximately 250),
microscopic evaluation of tissues, interpretation of toxicology, completion of anatomic protocols,
appearances in court upon occasion, and conferences with attorneys and/or police officials. Approximately
700 selected autopsies, including a large percentage of homicides, are performed in a modern autopsy
facility that was completely renovated in 2001. The cases are varied as they come both from urban and
rural counties both on the coast and inland. Experienced autopsy technicians help with the physical
performance of the autopsies. Trainees have the opportunity to assist in teaching police, coroners,
lawyers, medical students and residents and are expected to participate in weekly conferences where cases
are presented and topics are discussed. Time and funding are provided for study of forensic application of
anthropology, toxicology, crime scene, odontology, DNA/serology and ballistics at nearby state or national
centers. Computer and internet access are available, and a complete medical library is on the Medical
University premises. The fellow is expected to submit a forensic pathology-related article to a
peer-reviewed journal for publication; ample faculty support is available for this endeavor.
Three years of anatomic pathology or two years of anatomic and two years of clinical pathology
are preferred prerequisites for applicants; a minimum of two years of anatomic pathology
are required.
Stipends
The salary is set by the University guidelines at the PGY-5 level to coincide with the educational/experience level of the fellowship.
Fellow Benefits
$1200 annual book fund
Three weeks vacation plus educational leave
Free membership to Harper Wellness Center
Private office space
Use of a laptop computer
Microscope use
All expenses for attendance to Armed Forces Institute of Pathology “Forensic Anthropology” course and the
Saint Louis University School of Medicine Division of Forensic & Environmental
Pathology “The Medicolegal Death Investigator Training Course” or two other courses by mutual agreement
Free covered parking
Extensive AP/CP resources
Travel fund for poster/platform presentations at national meetings
The city of Charleston
For Additional Information
Cynthia A. Schandl, M.D., Ph.D.
Director of Forensic Pathology Training Program
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Medical University of South Carolina
171 Ashley Avenue, MSC 908
Charleston, South Carolina 29425-9080
Phone: (843) 792-3121
Fax: (843) 792-0555
Applications
The applications for fellowship programs can be downloaded below.