New York Presbyterian Hospital (Cornell Campus) Program

The Nuclear Medicine Residency Program at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital (Cornell Campus) is an ACGME-accredited training program designed to provide residents with specialized knowledge and skills in both diagnostic and therapeutic nuclear medicine. Located in Manhattan's Upper East Side, this program is part of the Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Radiology and serves a diverse patient population, offering exposure to a wide range of diseases and innovative imaging technologies.

Program Structure

The residency offers one-, two-, and three-year tracks, enabling flexibility based on the resident's academic and career objectives. As part of the program’s commitment to education, fellows in diagnostic radiology and residents in nuclear medicine collaborate closely, honing their skills in image interpretation and radiotherapy procedures through didactics and hands-on experiences.

An emphasis on Molecular Imaging and Therapeutics (MI&T) reflects the program's forward-thinking approach to medical imaging. The training focuses on personalized medicine through molecular imaging, preparing residents to excel in future healthcare innovations.

Facilities and Technology

The program boasts a state-of-the-art infrastructure, including:

• 3 PET/MRI scanners: Two Siemens mMR PET/MRI Scanners and one GE PET/MRI Scanner.
• Four Siemens mCT scanners for high-volume clinical and investigational PET studies.
• An extensive array of SPECT cameras designed for various studies, including cardiac and oncological evaluations.
• The Citigroup Biomedical Imaging Center (CBIC), equipped with a cyclotron for producing high-quality radiopharmaceuticals and radioisotopes.

This advanced technology combined with a robust research environment enhances the training experience, allowing residents to engage in cutting-edge clinical trials and procedures before they enter independent practice.

Training and Educational Opportunities

Residents receive comprehensive training that encompasses:

• Oncological PET/CT Training: Focus on interpreting FDG PET/CT and new radiotracers.
• Neurological PET/CT and PET/MR Training: Involvement in brain molecular imaging research to help diagnose and treat tumors.
• Cardiac PET Training: Experience with imaging techniques for myocardial viability and cardiac sarcoidosis.

This training is complemented with regular educational conferences and one-on-one mentorship, ensuring that residents develop the necessary skills and confidence for their future roles.

Research Component

The residency program actively encourages participation in research, particularly through the Molecular Imaging Innovations Institute (MI4). This institute connects clinical care to database mining, pharmacokinetic studies, and early-phase trials, promoting a collaborative environment for exploring precision medicine and targeted therapies.

Work Schedule and Responsibilities

Clinical responsibilities typically commence at 8 a.m. and conclude between 5 and 6 p.m. While research and didactic participation are essential components of the training, call responsibilities are structured to ensure a manageable work-life balance. Currently, there are no weekend call duties, and residents are encouraged to pursue electives aligned with their training and career goals.

Vacation and Mentorship

Residents receive 20 days of vacation annually, in addition to five sick days, promoting wellness and work-life balance. The program emphasizes mentorship, facilitating intergenerational learning through distinct mentorship teams that involve faculty, residents, and medical students.

Application Process and Competitiveness

The Nuclear Medicine Residency Program has specific application requirements, not participating in the NRMP match. Applicants typically submit through ERAS during the designated application cycle. It is essential to check specific details regarding eligibility, including graduation year and maximum failed STEP exams.

The program is known for its competitiveness but strives to maintain a welcoming environment for various applicants, including Osteopathic (DO) graduates and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). Visa sponsorship options are available, ensuring accessibility for non-U.S. citizens. Generally, J-1 visas are preferred, but details will depend on individual circumstances.

Innovative Training Approaches

The program also features unique training initiatives, such as the distribution of portable ultrasound devices to residents for practical use and a dedicated MRI scanning course to enhance technical skills in medical imaging. These innovations are designed to enhance education and competency in real-world clinical scenarios.