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Medical Device Fellowship Program

Introduction

The CDRH Medical Device Fellowship Program (MDFP) provides opportunities for health professionals to participate in the FDA regulatory process for medical devices.

CDRH regulates a wide array of medical devices, from artificial hearts, pacemakers, and drug-coated stents; to deep brain stimulators and spinal implants; dialysis machines and infusion pumps; intraocular lenses and cochlear implants; robotic surgery devices and stair-climbing wheelchairs; to in vitro diagnostic devices, and many others. To keep pace with the rapid development of new technology, and to make decisions based on the best scientific information and knowledge available, CDRH routinely consults with experts in the academic community, other government entities, clinical practice, and the military.

CDRH established the Medical Device Fellowship Program to increase the range and depth of collaborations between CDRH and the outside scientific community. The MDFP offers short and long-term fellowship opportunities for individuals interested in learning about the regulatory process and sharing their knowledge and experience with medical devices from the relatively simple to the highly complex.

Physicians with clinical or surgical expertise, engineers in biomedical, mechanical, electrical and software areas, and individuals from many other scientific disciplines have participated in the fellowship program. Opportunities are available for students in many areas as well.

Career Development

Learn about the FDA approval process for medical devices:

• medical device design
• clinical trial design and data
• safety and efficacy evaluation
• materials, performance, bioeffects and standards
• adverse events

Public Service

• Join CDRH’s mission to protect the public health by ensuring that medical devices are safe and effective.
• Share your expertise on complex device issues.
• Make a difference in the lives of patients and consumers.

Updated February 8, 2007