Future Challenges

As a research division, the Genetics Division faces the challenge of continuing to develop state-of-art resources and a sound research infrastructure for the future to maintain its leadership position in genetic research. The formation of an absolutely outstanding research environment is the vehicle by which the BWH Genetics Division has achieved its present success, and therefore the maintenance of this environment must remain its primary mission.

A second long-term challenge concerns the important need to integrate the excellent research programs described above with a broader mandate for clinical and translational genetics expertise that will help BWH accomplish its mission of alleviating suffering and to maintain its competitive stature. One specific project within this context is the formation of a combined residency program in Internal Medicine and Genetics. Recently, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and American Board of Medical Genetics (ABMG) have issued a set of guidelines for combined Internal Medicine/Medical Genetics residency programs. This exciting new initiative, which offers a potential mechanism to train residents in both disciplines, will make it possible to begin to train individuals who are adept at applying the tools of contemporary genome and genetics science to problems in internal medicine.

For more information about how you can assist us in meeting our goals, call Nina Zonnevylle, Administrative Manager, BWH Genetics Division, directly at (617) 525-4743 or email: zonnevylle@rascal.med.harvard.edu.