Global Outreach Observership Program FAQ

The Global Outreach Observership Program provides qualified medical graduates with an opportunity to observe and learn from practicing pathologists in the IU School of Medicine’s Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. It allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of the role of pathologists in the health care system, focusing on both anatomical and clinical pathology. This program is designed for national and international individuals seeking further training in pathology, with the potential to lead to a residency position in the U.S.

 The observership activities will occur primarily at the IU Health Pathology Laboratory, located at 350 W. 11th Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46202. Observers will also have the opportunity to rotate through affiliated facilities, including IU Health University Hospital, IU Health Methodist Hospital, Marion County Coroner’s Office, and the IU School of Medicine on the IU Indianapolis campus. Parking is available at a daily cost, with free parking available across the street and along nearby side streets. A free shuttle is provided for travel to campus and affiliate hospitals.

Observers are expected to:

• Participate in educational activities, including attending daily morning and afternoon conferences.
• Engage with pathologists, residents and fellows.
• Be present in the laboratory Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET.
• Select a subspecialty in which to focus during the rotation.

Observers are encouraged to meet with the program director and the director of the residency program. However, unless specifically working with the program director, they are not encouraged to ask for letters of recommendation from the program director.

The observership program offers no compensation, stipend, or reimbursement. All associated costs (travel, lodging, health insurance, immunizations, etc.) are the responsibility of the observer.

By the end of the rotation, observers should:

• Gain familiarity with the department of pathology and how different divisions interact.
• Understand the processes involved in acquiring, processing, and interpreting anatomic and clinical specimens.
• Develop an appreciation for the importance of accurate diagnosis and communication in patient management.
• Participate in conferences and research to enhance academic experience.

Applications are accepted from January 1 to March 1 each year. To apply, candidates must submit the following documents through the application portal:

• Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
• Medical school transcripts (translated if necessary)
• USMLE Step 1 score
• USMLE Step 2 score
• A headshot

Once submitted, applications are reviewed, and candidates will be notified of their status in April (accepted, waitlisted, or denied) via email from the education coordinator.

Word documents and/or PDF files are preferred file types.

May 5–June 1, 2025

June 2–29, 2025

July 28–Aug. 24, 2025

Aug. 25–Sept. 21, 2025

Sept. 22–Oct. 19, 2025

Oct. 20–Nov. 16, 2025

Jan. 5–Feb. 1, 2026

Feb. 2–March 1, 2026

March 2–March 29, 2026

March 30–April 26, 2026

Accepted applicants must:

• Be proficient in the English language.
• Be financially able to cover all program-related costs (travel, accommodation, insurance, etc.).
• Have applicable visas and immunizations before the start of the rotation.
• Adhere to the policies and regulations of IU School of Medicine and IU Health.

If an observer cancels the program, the cancellation is final, and they will not be allowed to reschedule. Waitlisted applicants will be contacted if spots become available.

For any questions or concerns prior to or during the rotation, please reach out to the education coordinator, Julie Connor, via email at julconno@iu.edu, for assistance with scheduling and program-related queries.