Our pharmacy residency programs are in collaboration with Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, offering a PGY1 program, a 24-Month PGY1/PGY2 Health System Pharmacy Administration & Leadership program and a PGY2 Infectious Diseases residency program.
Both the PGY1 program and our 24-month Health System Pharmacy Administration & Leadership (PGY1/PGY2) program are proudly ASHP accredited.
PGY2 Infection diseases residency program is in ASHP candidate status.
PGY1 residency programs build upon Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) education and outcomes to develop pharmacist practitioners with knowledge, skills, and abilities as defined in the educational competency areas, goals, and objectives. Residents who successfully complete PGY1 residency programs will be skilled in diverse patient care, practice management, leadership, and education, and be prepared to provide patient care, seek board certification in pharmacotherapy (i.e., BCPS), and pursue advanced education and training opportunities including postgraduate year two (PGY2) residencies.
Program description
Tufts Medicine MelroseWakefield Hospital (MWH)/Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) residency is a structured, 1-year postgraduate educational and training experience that fosters the development of advanced knowledge and skills in the delivery of pharmaceutical services within a community hospital setting.
The residency consists of learning experiences in key areas of internal medicine, critical care, pharmacy leadership/administration, medication safety, infectious diseases, pharmacy operations, anticoagulation, and academia.
Besides completing core and elective learning experiences, the resident will have to conduct a longitudinal research project to be presented at a meeting conference(s) as decided by RPD for the given year. The resident will be expected to staff every other weekend with 1 adjusted day off either the week before or after the weekend worked. Additionally, the resident will be expected to work one major and one minor holiday. The resident will have an academic appointment as the rank of instructor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice at MCPHS University, Boston. The resident will teach in various areas of pharmacy practice and will gain experience as a preceptor for pharmacy students on advanced clinical rotations. Upon completion of the program, the resident will be prepared to enter numerous fields of clinical practice.
The fundamental goal of the residency is to attract and develop pharmacists whose talents and motivation indicate a strong potential for assuming leadership roles in a community hospital setting.
Upon completion of the program, the resident will be prepared to enter numerous fields of clinical practice.
The PGY1 program has:
PGY2 residency programs build upon Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) education and PGY1 pharmacy residency training to develop pharmacist practitioners with knowledge, skills, and abilities as defined in the educational competency areas, goals, and objectives for advanced practice areas. Residents who successfully complete PGY2 residency programs are prepared for advanced patient care or other specialized positions, and board certification in the advanced practice area, if available.
Program description
The PGY1/PGY2 is a structured, 2-year postgraduate educational and training experience that is designed to develop pharmacists in the skills necessary to become a competent and confident formal hospital pharmacy leader.
The PGY1 program provides a strong practice foundation with an emphasis on clinical skill development. The PGY2 program provides a broad experience in the management of pharmacy services in a community health system setting including inpatient and ambulatory programs, as well as foundation skills in human resources, leadership, technology, compliance, informatics, operational management, finance, medication safety and quality. The HSPAL resident participates in the ASHP Foundation Pharmacy Leadership Academy in the PGY 2 year. Staffing includes 16 hours per month mainly at the Lawrence Memorial campus (weekends only if needed) in addition to one major and one minor holiday. The HSPAL PGY2 also rotates leader on call once a month.
The 24-month PGY1 & PGY2 program (NMS code 239741) has 1 position available (general or international track but requires valid status for 2 years).
PGY2 residency programs build upon Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) education and PGY1 pharmacy residency training to develop pharmacist practitioners with knowledge, skills, and abilities as defined in the educational competency areas, goals, and objectives for advanced practice areas. Residents who successfully complete PGY2 residency programs are prepared for advanced patient care or other specialized positions, and board certification in the advanced practice area, if available.
Program Description
The PGY2 program is a structured, 1-year postgraduate educational and training experience that advances on the knowledge and skills acquired during PGY-1 residency in the delivery of pharmaceutical services specializing in infectious diseases (ID) within a community hospital setting. The program will provide a broad and comprehensive experiences in various aspect of infectious diseases pharmacy practices including but not limited to clinical ID service and stewardship activities, wound care service experience, microbiology laboratory experience, HIV and immunocompromised patient population services. There is a greater emphasis on various stewardship activities, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics principles of antibiotics selection and dosing as well as managing resistance organisms. Besides completing core and elective learning experiences, the resident will have to conduct a longitudinal research project to be presented at a conference as decided by RPD for the given year. There may be some opportunities to have select learning experiences at our partner sites for specific patient population to cover the depth and breadth of clinical ID experience. The resident will be expected to staff every other weekend with 1 adjusted day off either the week before or after the weekend worked. Additionally, the resident will be expected to work one major and one minor holiday. Upon completion of the program, the resident will be prepared to enter into various roles in the field of infectious diseases.
PGY2 ID program has 1 position available. It is currently available for an international (Saudi Arabia or Kuwait candidates who has govt. sponsored scholarship) candidate only.
PGY1 and 24-month PGY1/PGY2 program
PGY2 ID Applicant Requirements
All applicants must apply through PhORCAS:
All materials should be submitted by January 3rd of each year.
Note: There is an option to early commit for the PGY2 ID program only. Currently, the PGY2-ID program is only available for an international candidate (Saudi Arabia or Kuwait candidates who has a government-sponsored scholarship).
MCPHS University Boston is the second oldest pharmacy school in the United States with a strong commitment to preparing future leaders of the profession of pharmacy. The University is located in the prestigious Longwood Medical and Academic Area. The University grants degrees in several undergraduate and graduate programs.
Originally from Saudi Arabia, Amnah earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree twice, once from MCPHS University in Worcester, MA, and also Jazan University in Saudi Arabia. She is a registered pharmacist in both countries.
Amnah's professional interests include critical care and investigational drug services.
In her personal time, Amnah enjoys hosting friends and family for holiday activities and spending time with her loved ones. A unique fact about Amnah is that she often cleans to clear her mind and gain a fresh perspective.
Infectious diseases and oncology
Outside of her professional work, Najlaa enjoys reading, cooking, hiking and exploring new places and cultures.
Ambulatory care, internal medicine and cardiology
Outside of the pharmacy, Christopher enjoys anything Boston sports related, staying active, playing cards, gardening and eating/cooking. Christopher loves to be friends and family, and tries to spend time with them as much as possible (residency permitting).
cardiology, ambulatory care and emergency medicine
Outside of the pharmacy, Thu enjoys traveling, creating new drink recipes, and exploring different cuisines. She values spending time with friends and family whenever possible.
Dr. Mohammed AlQaryan was born and raised in Saudi Arabia. He graduated from MCPHS and completed his PGY-1 residency at MelroseWakefield Hospital. He is currently the PGY-2 Pharmacy Resident in Infectious Disease.
Infectious disease
Mohammed enjoys discovering new areas around the city with his family. He enjoys watching soccer games, being a big fan of Barcelona. Mohammed is passionate about cooking and loves trying new recipes.
Hayoung loves running—especially with her dad back home in Korea—and misses their weekend runs together. She also enjoys practicing yoga, exploring new restaurants, and happily wandering supermarket aisles.
Dr. Robert Stoica currently serves as a PGY2 HSPAL resident at MelroseWakefield Hospital, where he also completed his PGY1 training. Raised in Revere, MA, he pursued his education at MCPHS University in Boston, graduating in 2024.
Robert developed a passion for sports early on, particularly hockey, football and basketball. Beyond his hospital duties, he enjoys watching TV shows, dining out, and avidly scouting football players for his fantasy team (despite his claims of expertise!). An interesting fact about Robert is his fluency in Romanian.
Randy Hollins, PharmD, BCCCP
Clinical Manager, PGY1 Residency Program Director
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Critical Care II, Orientation, Project
Contact: randy.hollins@tuftsmedicine.org
Ruchit Marfatia, PharmD, MSCR, BCIDP
Clinical Specialist II (Antimicrobial Stewardship, PGY2-ID Residency Program Director
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Infectious Diseases (care and advanced), Preceptor Development, Orientation, Project
Contact: Ruchit.Marfatia@tuftsmedicine.org
Nicole Clark, PharmD, MHA, BCPS, FASHP, FMSHP
Director of Pharmacy, HSPAL Residency Program Director
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Leadership/Administration, Medication Safety, Project
Contact: Nicole.Clark@tuftsmedicine.org
Toni DeQuevedo, PharmD, CACP, BCACP
Anticoagulation Coordinator
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Anticoagulation
Contact: Antonia.DeQuevedo@tuftsmedicine.org
Ed Harney, RPh
Clinical Pharmacist
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Internal Medicine
Contact: Ed.Harney@tuftsmedicine.org
Amy Lemieux, PharmD
Clinical Pharmacist
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Psychiatry, Transitions in Care
Contact: Amy.a.Lemieux@tuftsmedicine.org
Kaitlin Nickerson, PharmD
Clinical Pharmacist
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Critical Care I, Pharmacy Practice
Contact: Kaitlin.e.Nickerson@tuftsmedicine.org
Jonathan Tiongson, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical Pharmacist
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Internal Medicine, Pharmacy Practice
Contact: Jonathan.Tiongson@tuftsmedicine.org
Leigh Taylor, PharmD, BCPS, CDCES
Clinical Pharmacy Specialist
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Ambulatory Care (with a concentration on diabetes)
Contact: Leigh.Taylor@tuftsmedicine.org
Nicole Clark, PharmD, MHA, BCPS, FASHP, FMSHP
Director of Pharmacy, HSPAL Residency Program Director
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Director of Pharmacy Leadership, Finances and Strategic Planning, Medication Safety/Drug Policy, Advanced Finance, Human Resources, Project, Staffing, Residency Program Coordination, Chief Resident
Contact: Nicole.Clark@tuftsmedicine.org
Tom Cerbone, RPh
Informatics Manager
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Informatics Pharmacy Leadership, Technology Advancement and Implementation
Contact: Tom.Cerbone@tuftsmedicine.org
Ruchit Marfatia, PharmD, MSCR, BCPS, BCIDP
Antimicrobial Stewardship Coordinator, PGY2-ID Residency Program Director
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Pharmacy Leadership Academy
Contact: Ruchit.Marfatia@tuftsmedicine.org
Randy Hollins, PharmD, BCCCP
Clinical Manager
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Clinical Pharmacy Leadership, Chief Resident, Residency Program Coordination, Project
Contact: Randy.Hollins@tuftsmedicine.org
Paige DeMarco, PharmD
Operations Manager
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Operations Pharmacy Leadership, Leadership Practice, Sterile Operations
Contact: Paige.Demarco@tuftsmedicine.org
Erica Diamantides, PharmD, MHA, BCPS, FASHP
VP, Ambulatory Pharmacy
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Ambulatory Care Leadership
Contact: Erica.Diamantides@tuftsmedicine.org
Alex Wilkocki, PharmD, MBA, BCPS
Associate Director, System Pharmacy Business Operations
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Supply Chain and Revenue Cycle
Contact: Alexander.Wilkocki@tuftsmedicine.org
Ruchit Marfatia, PharmD, MSCR, BCIDP
Clinical Specialist II (Antimicrobial Stewardship, PGY2-ID Residency Program Director)
Learning Experience(s): Infectious Diseases Consult, Antimicrobial Stewardship, Antimicrobial Stewardship Administration, Wound Care Clinic, Pharmacy Leadership and Administration, Teaching Experience, Orientation, Project
Contact: Ruchit.Marfatia@tuftsmedicine.org
Randy Hollins, PharmD, BCCCP
Clinical Manager
Learning Experience(s): Medical Critical Care Precept
Contact: Randy.Hollins@tuftsmedicine.org
Nicole Clark, PharmD, MHA, BCPS, FASHP, FMSHP
Director of Pharmacy, HSPAL Residency Program Director
Learning Experience(s): Teaching Experience
Contact: Nicole.Clark@tuftsmedicine.org
Jonathan Tiongson, PharmD, BCPS
Clinical Pharmacist
Learning Experience(s) Precept: Pharmacy Practice, SIDP Antimicrobial Stewardship Certificate Program
Contact: Jonathan.Tiongson@tuftsmedicine.org
Kaitlin Nickerson, PharmD
Clinical Pharmacist
Learning Experience(s) Precept (Pharmacy Practice)
Contact: Kaitlin.E.Nickerson@tuftsmedicine.org
Applications for consideration will be reviewed by the residency application review committee to select candidates for an interview that most closely match our program goals and learning opportunities. This committee is composed of the residency program director and selected preceptors. All application materials including a letter of intent, CV, transcripts and letters of recommendation will be reviewed by the committee and recommendations of whether to consider for an interview made based on the specific rubric evaluating various domains. An average of 5-6 candidates will be interviewed for each available position.
The interview process may be virtual or in-person. If virtual, an on-site option may be given for candidates wishing to tour pharmacy/hospital. The interview process will usually be anywhere from half a day to a full day.
General template for the interview consists of but not limited to:
Phase II interview process may follow the same template but would be accelerated with less team members.
All residents must be licensed or be eligible for licensure in the state of Massachusetts on the initiation of the program. If a resident is not licensed prior to the start of the residency, they must obtain an MA pharmacy intern license. All residents are required to be a Massachusetts licensed pharmacist within 120 days of starting their residency program.
Understanding each of our residents individual goals and interests is important and our program puts its best efforts to provide flexibility with learning experience schedule, electives and residency projects. We encourage our residents to not hesitate to discuss opportunities to tailor activities to their specific interests.
PGY1 and PGY2-ID residents are expected to staff every other weekend in addition to one major and one minor holiday. Residents will be given 1 comp day for every 2 weekend shifts (1 day for working Saturday and Sunday).
PGY1 resident staffing includes all clinical areas as well as central pharmacy. PGY-2 ID residents are expected to staff on clinical areas and PGY2-HSPAL resident is expected to staff 16 hours per month in clinical or non-clinical areas.
PGY-1 or PGY-ID residents in the pharmacy program are not expected to be responsible for on-call services.
Our PGY-2 HSPAL resident does handle leadership on-call responsibilities to obtain managerial experience.
Yes, PGY1 international track resident will be eligible for early commit for PGY2-ID program if they meet specific criteria. In addition, a formal interview process will also be conducted for the final selection of the candidate.
The PGY-1 resident minimum stipend is $50,422 and the PGY2 resident minimum stipend is $53,048. For international track residents, salary and benefits are provided through MCPHS. The resident will receive an annual salary as decided and is eligible for health, dental and prescription benefits. The required wage rate must be the higher of the actual wage rate or the Department of Labor prevailing wage. In addition, an employer is not permitted to pay a wage that is lower than a wage required under any other applicable federal, state or local law.
Our graduated residents have received PGY-2 training and practice as clinical pharmacists in various medical institutions across the globe. Our past PGY-2 HSPAL residents have progressed to director of pharmacy positions at other institutions, obtained clinical coordinator/leadership roles and even entered medical school.
