Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science (Phoenix) Program

During the 12-month Nuclear Radiology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona, fellows receive advanced training in all aspects of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging, including both outpatient and inpatient settings, as well as radionuclide therapy. The program emphasizes clinical and academic subspecialty training, with opportunities to work closely with experts in nuclear medicine, diagnostic radiology, oncology, and related medical specialties. Unique highlights include learning from world-class Mayo Clinic radiologists, participating in nuclear-aided procedures and radionuclide therapy at a subspecialty level, and fostering effective consultation with clinical colleagues. Furthermore, excellent research and teaching opportunities are available, aimed at preparing fellows to excel in either academic or subspecialized private practice 1.

Each fellow will have the advantage of working in a top-ranking hospital, recognized as the #1 hospital in Arizona for 12 consecutive years according to U.S. News (2024-25). The training facilities include state-of-the-art molecular imaging modalities such as 3 PET/MR machines and a Cyclotron, contributing to a rich training experience 1.

Training Experience

Mayo Clinic provides fellows with robust clinical, educational, and research resources. The environment promotes both physical and mental wellness, ensuring that work-life balance is prioritized. With a 4:1 faculty-to-fellow ratio, fellows receive personalized attention and mentorship throughout their training 1.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum covers all fundamentals of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging. The 12-month training includes various rotations, featuring:

• General nuclear medicine: covering gamma imaging, plantar scintigraphy, and SPECT/CT
• Radionuclide therapy: encompassing radio-iodine ablation therapy for hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer, Radium-233 therapy for prostate cancer, Y-90 and Lu177 treatments for neuroendocrine tumors, and Lu177 Pluvicto therapy for castration-resistant metastatic prostate cancer
• PET/CT and PET/MRI practice utilizing clinical and investigational PET tracers
• Nuclear cardiology: focused on SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging and cardiac PET/CT

Fellows are granted up to four weeks of elective time dedicated to research and academic endeavors, with involvement in regularly scheduled conferences such as interdisciplinary tumor conferences, journal clubs, and didactic sessions throughout the fellowship period 3.

Research Training

Mayo Clinic's Nuclear Medicine Division in Phoenix actively engages in clinical research. Fellows are expected to participate in multiple projects alongside staff during their fellowship year, fostering skills applicable in both clinical and academic settings 3.

Application Process and Requirements

For the Nuclear Radiology Fellowship, there is one available position each year. Applicants must be board certified or eligible for certification in their area of interest and have completed an accredited Radiology Residency training. The application process involves applying through a third-party service, submitting all materials online. Applications must include:

• Two letters of recommendation, one from the Radiology Residency Program Director and another from a faculty member
• For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), submission of an ECFMG certificate, USMLE Step 3 score, and types of visa requested (such as J1 or H1B) is required.

The application materials are due by December 10 of the year preceding the program start date 2.

Visa Support

The program supports visa applications for J1 and H1B visa types for eligible international medical graduates, facilitating their training in the United States 2.

Fellow Culture and Environment

The program prides itself on fostering a collegial environment where a collaborative learning experience is emphasized. It is committed to stellar patient care and an inclusive culture. The Mayo Fellows Association offers social support and various activities designed to build community among trainees and their families, promoting wellness and connection 4.

Conclusion

Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to deliver high-quality nuclear radiology care in various medical settings, having gained substantial expertise through a comprehensive training experience at Mayo Clinic 1.