Nephrology Fellowship
The SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Nephrology Fellowship Program provides comprehensive training for diagnosing and treating all aspects of kidney function and disease, from general conditions to dialysis, transplantation and interventional access procedures.
A Message From the Program Director
Welcome, and thank you for your interest in the Nephrology Fellowship Program.
I still remember the day I chose nephrology — that patient encounter that inspired me and the mentor who guided me toward this field. Now, as a clinical educator and scientist, I remain deeply grateful for my decision. Nephrology is an intellectually challenging, physiologically rich, profoundly meaningful specialty. I look forward to working with the next generation of nephrologists and helping you discover your own path within this remarkable field.
Established more than 30 years ago, our program has trained more than 100 successful graduates. We recruit three to four fellows each year and have a total of seven fellows in our program. Our strengths include dedicated and accomplished faculty, a diverse patient population and broad clinical exposure ranging from critical care and interventional nephrology to in-center and home dialysis. Fellows gain experience across multiple health care systems, including SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital and the John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital, which provide a well-rounded clinical perspective.
Our two-year fellowship is led by engaged, passionate and highly supportive faculty. One of the defining features of our program is the close one-on-one mentorship between attendings and fellows. Under division leadership, we've cultivated a warm, collegial and family-like atmosphere. That support and collaboration continue to shape our faculty and fellows, creating a community where trainees thrive both professionally and personally.
Our goal is to tailor your fellowship experience to your individual career aspirations. Approximately half of our graduates pursue academic careers, while the other half enter private practice. Some continue to additional subspecialty training in transplant nephrology, critical care or interventional nephrology. Many alumni report that, upon graduation, they felt exceptionally well-prepared for independent practice. It is especially rewarding to see some of our graduates remain with us as faculty, continuing the tradition of excellence and mentorship.
We are proud of our program, our people and the supportive environment we have built. We invite you to learn more about us and consider joining our "SLU Nephron" family.
Kana Miyata, M.D.
Program director
Program Overview
The two-year, ACGME-accredited nephrology fellowship prepares trainees for academic medicine and clinical nephrology practice, with opportunities in interventional nephrology and research.
Fellows rotate through inpatient and outpatient settings at the following sites:
- SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital
- John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital
- Fresenius Kidney Care dialysis center
Notable opportunities include: Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) curriculum; simulated practice of central venous catheterization and renal ultrasonography; and interventional nephrology procedures such as arteriovenous access assessment, angiography, endovascular interventions, tunneled central venous insertion/removal, and kidney biopsy.
Training also includes Journal Club, Grand Rounds and conferences covering research, quality improvement, interesting patient cases and core nephrology curriculum.
Program Highlights
- Close-knit, supportive training environment
- Diverse faculty and patient population
- Clinical exposure to:
- Active liver and kidney transplant programs
- Interventional nephrology and POCUS training
- Hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis
- Pathology training
- Elective rotations including palliative care, ultrasound, renal pathology and research
- Teaching and mentorship opportunities
- Support for case reports and presentations at national meetings
- Work-life balance and wellness activities
Apply
The program has three available positions each year. Virtual interviews take place from mid-August through late October.
The program participates in the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP).
Review the Application Process
About the SSM Health/Saint Louis University School of Medicine Graduate Medical Education Program
SSM Health proudly sponsors the Graduate Medical Education Program at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. This university-based training program offers a world-class academic environment that fosters clinical excellence, research innovation and compassionate care. All program participants are employed by SSM Health, ensuring a cohesive and supportive experience within a nationally recognized health system.