Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Phoenix) Program

Mayo Clinic in Phoenix/Scottsdale, Arizona, offers a one-year Clinical Neurophysiology, Electroencephalography (EEG), Epilepsy Fellowship Program designed for those seeking to establish and supervise an epilepsy program and EEG laboratory. Throughout the fellowship, there is considerable emphasis on EEG assessments for seizure disorders, offering fellows exposure to numerous seizure-related conditions and advanced monitoring techniques, including prolonged and ambulatory monitoring.

The fellowship prepares trainees to:

• Interpret EEGs
• Supervise prolonged recordings
• Coordinate special studies
• Perform surgical monitoring
• Conduct clinical research
• Teach other medical trainees

This comprehensive approach ensures fellows acquire essential skills in the management of patients experiencing epilepsy and related disorders.

Since its approval in 2002, the program has been structured to accept one trainee annually. The program’s faculty comprises highly experienced neurologists and specialists, which enhances the learning environment.

Application Process

Two fellowships are available: one for Clinical Neurophysiology (CNP) EEG-track fellows and another specifically for Epilepsy. Each fellowship lasts one year and offers only one appointed position on a competitive basis. Candidates have the option to complete both fellowships sequentially, totaling two years, to become board certified in both subspecialties.

To qualify, applicants must have completed an accredited residency program in neurology or physical medicine in the United States or Canada and be eligible for the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Certifying Examination. It is important to observe that international medical graduates on J-1 visas are permitted to complete only one year in clinical neurophysiology or EEG fellowship due to ACGME accreditation standards.

Application materials must include a letter of recommendation from the residency program director or the department chair. The application process requires submission through ERAS, and candidates must complete all documentation before March 1 of the previous year of appointment. Interviews are held from December through March.

Curriculum

Fellows will be integral to the epilepsy team, participating in both inpatient and outpatient care across varied settings. The fellowship begins with a two-month basic clinical neurophysiology course covering essential aspects of clinical neurophysiology, emphasizing anatomy, physiology, pathology, as well as EEG and EMG technical skills.

Following this foundational session, the remaining ten months will focus on advanced training within the Comprehensive Epilepsy Program. Daily EEG reading sessions will include routine and emergent EEG analyses, as well as interpretations utilizing intracranial electrodes. Additionally, fellows will engage in surgical planning and evaluate candidates for vagal nerve stimulation.

The fellowship also encompasses training in evoked potential studies, assessment techniques for movement disorders, and opportunities for rotations in a comprehensive sleep disorders clinic. These rotations provide exposure to various neurophysiological techniques.

Exposure to didactic training through clinical conferences, seminars, and journal clubs will be consistent throughout the fellowship. Furthermore, fellows will participate in a weekly multidisciplinary surgical epilepsy conference and will have opportunities for academic involvement.

Research Opportunities

Fellows will have excellent research opportunities at Mayo Clinic in Arizona, with access to highly trained laboratory and statistical support teams. The comprehensive nature of the program also includes specialty training in amytal testing and participation in drug trials as well as other clinical research projects. Participants are encouraged to engage in research that aligns with their personal interests and may expect at least one publication as lead author during their fellowship year.

Fellow participation in national neuroscience meetings to present original research is supported and encouraged.

Visa Support and Requirements

The program sponsors J-1 visa applications for international medical graduates, which allows for a one-year fellowship completion. As per the guidelines set forth by the Immigration Service, J-1 visa holders are restricted to one year in this fellowship due to accreditation limitations.

Competitiveness

The Clinical Neurophysiology and EEG, Epilepsy Fellowship at Mayo Clinic is considered competitive, emphasizing strong candidates with backgrounds in accredited residency programs. The program is open to both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates, allowing for a diverse applicant pool.

Faculty and Training Environment

The Department of Neurology at Mayo Clinic in Arizona features a collaborative environment, housing specialists dedicated to diagnosing and treating various neurological conditions. The faculty's collective expertise spans a wide range of research areas, and fellows have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge clinical practices.

Fellows will have a faculty adviser assigned to them, offering both educational guidance and personal support tailored to enhance their training experience. Additionally, prominent visiting professors present lectures and participate in hospital rounds, providing opportunities for further learning and professional development.