This is a three-year training programme that satisfies the requirements for certification by the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ECVIM) in the Speciality of Oncology.

The objectives of the programme are as follows:

• to provide comprehensive post-graduate training in medical oncology in companion animals
• to prepare the resident for the certifying examination in the specialty of Oncology of the European College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
• to provide the resident with the opportunity to participate in the clinical training of veterinary students
• to provide an introduction to clinical research

There is a strong emphasis on clinical duties with the majority of time being spent in the clinical medical oncology service, participating in a number of roles, including seeing oncology referrals, managing hospitalised patients and also undertaking weekend duties on a shared rota.

The service is supported by four faculty members and  three residents who work in close collaboration with internists, surgeons, radiologists, cardiologists, ophthalmologists, neurologists, critical care specialists, clinical pathologists and pathologists, providing a multidisciplinary approach to the patient’s management. There are sometimes clinical trial programmes happening, which you will actively participate in. Additional rotations through other clinical services include:  radiation oncology (off site), internal medicine, radiology, clinical pathology, surgical pathology and several weeks of elective rotations.

In addition to the clinical commitment, residents’ training includes weekly attendance at journal club, book club, and other seminars on a variety of subjects. Cytology / pathology rounds are held approximately monthly. You will be expected to present at these seminars, which will serve as preparation for external presentations at conferences.

Time off clinics will be provided for study, development of a research project and holidays (the holiday allocation is 25 days per year inclusive of bank holidays).

Student teaching and clinical research are integral parts of the programme which operates within the QMHA and you will be actively involved in rotational student teaching and supported to develop clinical research. Publication is required for ECVIM credentials and presentation of this research at a major European or North American conference is strongly encouraged. Within the MVetMed programme you will enrol in specific modules which also contribute towards the training required for board certification.

Selection criteria for the Residency in Oncology

Along with the attributes and qualifications required it is also desirable if you have:

• Completed a one year small animal rotating internship programme in a specialist referral centre or a university
•  Evidence of exposure to clinical oncology i.e. clinical rotations during an internship, externships at clinical oncology referral centres, research projects, etc.
• Evidence of attendance at oncology-related CPD events / courses
• High motivation for self development of clinical skills and research in small animal oncology

Further information

•  QMHA Oncology service

If you have any  questions about the Oncology programme you are encouraged to contact

Dr Alexandra Guillen Martinez at (aguillen@rvc.ac.uk)

For general information about the programme see: Residencies.

How to apply

For details see How To Apply.