The Ocular Oncology Program at the Hamilton Eye Institute is led by Matthew W. Wilson, MD, FACS, the Barrett G. Haik Endowed Chair and Professor of Ophthalmology, Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology, and Director of the Hamilton Eye Institute at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Dr. Wilson also serves as Chief of Ophthalmology at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, where he holds the St. Jude Endowed Chair in Pediatric Ophthalmology.
Our program represents an internationally recognized ocular oncology center with one of the largest practices in the nation. The unique collaboration between Hamilton Eye Institute and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital provides unparalleled exposure to both pediatric and adult ocular tumors, including approximately 100 new uveal melanoma cases and 30 retinoblastoma cases annually.
Dr. Wilson has authored over 160 peer-reviewed publications and 20 book chapters, and received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology in 2018. He has trained numerous fellows in ocular oncology and oculoplastics, and has worked extensively with St. Jude's Department of Pediatric Global to build retinoblastoma centers of excellence in Central America, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Sub-Saharan Africa.
This one to two year pre-residency research fellowship provides intensive training in ocular oncology before ophthalmology residency. Fellows conduct clinical research projects, contribute to publications, and gain meaningful clinical and surgical exposure while preparing for competitive ophthalmology residency programs.
Research Focus Areas
- Clinical Research: Conducting clinical research projects with compilation of data in a relatively independent fashion
- Retinoblastoma: Pediatric ocular oncology research in collaboration with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Uveal Melanoma: Adult ocular tumor diagnosis, treatment outcomes, and prognostic factors
- Translational Research: Bridging bench-to-bedside research in ocular cancer treatment
Relevant Skills
Research
- Conduct clinical research projects with compilation of data in a relatively independent fashion
- Publication of research in peer-reviewed journals
- Presentation of research at national meetings
- Assistance with related ocular oncology education
- Access to one of the nation's largest ocular oncology case volumes
Clinical & Surgical Exposure
- Resident Clinic (half-day/week): Examine and work up patients under direct supervision of residents and attending physicians
- Operating Room (half-day/week): Gain surgical knowledge and skills with various clinical faculty, including the residency program director
- Exposure to diverse pediatric and adult ocular tumor cases
- Experience with radiotherapy and chemotherapy in ocular cancer treatment
- Give at least one Friday morning grand rounds presentation to residents and faculty
Mentorship & Professional Development
- Direct mentorship from Dr. Wilson and departmental faculty
- Participate in Grand Rounds and CME activities
- Engage in journal clubs and educational lectures
- Personalized guidance on residency applications and interview preparation
- Volunteer opportunities with the Mid-South Lions Club
Match Track Record: The track record of matching research fellows to ophthalmology residency programs is very strong. However, an interview with the UTHSC residency program is not guaranteed.
Compensation & Benefits
- Stipend Competitive salary provided
- Benefits Health, dental, vision available
- Conference Support Travel to national meetings supported
Requirements
- Degree: MD or DO from a US medical school (must be completed by start date)
- Citizenship/Visa: US citizen, permanent resident, or valid work authorization
- Location: Must be able to work in person in Memphis, TN
- Qualities: Individually motivated, hardworking, easy to work with, and capable of learning several new skills
Application Materials
- Current CV
- SF Match Application Packet
Selection Process
Application Submission
Submit application materials via email to the program
Initial Review
Applications reviewed for completeness and qualifications
Interviews
Selected candidates invited for interviews with Dr. Wilson and team
Decision
Offers extended to selected candidates
The ideal candidate is individually motivated, hardworking, easy to work with, and capable of learning several new skills. We encourage interested applicants to reach out with questions.