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Chinese Surgeons International Training Program

Program Overview

This fellowship provides an observational educational experience for young Chinese cardiothoracic surgeons to spend between two to three months at a host institution in North America. The award provides recipients with up to $15,000 (USD) to cover travel and living expenses while participating in the program. The aim of this experience is to give fellows the opportunity to observe and converse with specialists in the field at suggested host sites in North America, while concurrently obtaining technical skills. Fellows will focus on training in the following areas:

  • Valve Repair
  • MICS CABG
  • TAVR
  • Aortic Surgery
  • Other topics as per the host site's recommendations

Suggested host sites that can provide observational opportunities:
  • Michael Deeb and Steven Bolling, University of Michigan
  • Michael Halkos, Emory University at Midtown
  • Marc Gillinov, Cleveland Clinic
  • David H. Adams, Mount-Sinai Medical Center
  • Aubrey C. Galloway, New York University
  • Scott M. Goldman, Lankenau Medical Center
  • Vaughn A. Starnes, University of Southern California
View previous Chinese Surgeons International Training Program recipients

Eligibility

To be eligible for an award, applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:

  • Current Status: A candidate shall have completed his/her formal training in cardiothoracic surgery with active appointment within a hospital/academic center and must be board certified in China
  • Geographical: A candidate must be a current resident of China
  • Language Requirement: Fluency in English is mandatory
  • Travel Requirement: Candidate must meet all necessary criteria (license, visa, etc.) for travel to and from host training site, applicants must also agree to return to China following program
  • Supporting Documents: The applicant's program director/chief will need to write a letter stating their support of the applicants continued education in cardiac surgery and their adoption of newly learned principles upon return

Application Process

In addition to a formal online application, candidates will also be required to upload the following materials:

  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Letter of support from their department chair or division chief
  • One to two page narrative to include: (1) what they hope to accomplish during the Fellowship (including timeline and area of interest); (2) how they will utilize the skills they have learned at their home institution; (3) the relationship of the planned study to the applicant’s prior work, preparation and professional goals; and, (4) statement of future career goals

Review Process

The AATS Foundation Asian Scholarship Committee, which includes Chinese surgeons who are AATS members, will review all submitted applications. Applications will be graded on all aspects of the award criteria.
  • Within 30 days after the conclusion of a fellow’s experience, a final report is required for submission to the Foundation and sponsor.
  • Host sites will also be requested to provide feedback which will be included along with the Fellow’s final report.