Intern/Resident Application

Dear Applicant,

Thank you for your interest in conducting research at the Clinic for Special Children. We are a non-profit organization dedicated to providing affordable clinical, laboratory, and research services to children and adults with complex genetic disorders, primarily in the local Amish and Mennonite communities. Our combination of comprehensive clinical care and embedded biochemical and molecular laboratory services allows for longitudinal studies ultimately resulting in patient-focused translational research. Should your application be approved, you would aid us in this mission.

Given the demand of clinical care and research duties on our staff, space for interns and residents is limited and awarded on a competitive basis. While the Clinic staff will provide guidance and mentorship, the success of any project will depend on your initiative and ability to work independently. Typical projects include an in-depth study of an individual case or disorder. While clinical and/or laboratory experiences may be part of the course of study depending on your focus, this is not primarily a “shadowing” experience. Research opportunities at the Clinic are also unpaid positions. Near the end of your study period, you will be required to formally present findings from your project to Clinic staff.

The following papers will provide information regarding our unique practice and laboratory. It is recommended that you read these papers before filling out the application.

For those interested in the culture of our patient population, we recommend Amish Society by John Hostetler.

Who Should Apply

  • Undergraduates (min. 2 years completed)
  • Medical residents (in at least their 2nd year of residency)
  • Fellows/post-doctoral
  • Faculty from outside institutions
  • Graduate students

Requirements for Study

  • Any clinical experiences are only for individuals who are enrolled in a clinical program (residents, fellows, genetic counselors, etc.)
  • You are in good academic standing or employment
  • You are enrolled in a course of study or have an educational background relevant to the work of the Clinic

Required Documents

  • Completed application
  • Personal statement
    • In 500 words or less, please describe your motivation for coming to study at the Clinic for Special Children
  • Transcript or proof of employment
  • Curriculum vitae
  • One (1) letter of recommendation from a person familiar with your character, abilities, and intent. If the author of the letter of recommendation would prefer to send it directly to the Clinic, they can email us directly at students@clinicforspecialchildren.org.

NOTE: While we provide a unique learning experience within the scope of our normal practice, it will be the responsibility of any applicant to fulfill any additional educational requirements imposed by his or her institution.

DEADLINE: At least 3 months prior to your intended start date

SUBMISSION: Submit all documents below via our online application form.

The Clinic for Special Children awards opportunities based solely on the qualifications of each individual candidate without regard to any unlawful classifications. All interns and residents of different backgrounds and perspectives regardless of race, religion, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity and/or disability are welcome.

IF YOU NEED FURTHER ASSISTANCE: Please email us at students@clinicforspecialchildren.org.

Online Application

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  • Accepted file types: pdf, jpg, png, docx, Max. file size: 128 MB.
    In 500 words or less, please describe your motivation for coming to study at the Clinic for Special Children
  • Max. file size: 128 MB.
  • Max. file size: 128 MB.
  • Max. file size: 128 MB.
    From persons familiar with your character, abilities, and intent. If the author of the letter of recommendation prefers to send directly to CSC, they can email it to us at students@clinicforspecialchildren.org.