University of Maryland Program

Overview of the Neuroradiology Fellowship

The Neuroradiology Fellowship at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) offers a comprehensive one-year program that is ACGME-approved and includes 4 fellowship positions. The program is associated with a robust team comprised of 8 full-time diagnostic neuroradiologists and 3 interventional neuroradiologists, which ensures a rich educational environment for fellows.

UMMC is the oldest public medical school in the region and serves as a primary provider of radiology services at the University of Maryland main campus, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, and 6 other major regional hospitals. This fosters a diverse clinical experience. Additionally, fellows will undergo one month of dedicated pediatric neuroradiology training at the Children’s National Medical Center, thus broadening their clinical exposure.

Training Environment

The training environment is designed to optimize learning through a structured approach that emphasizes personal mentorship. One-on-one attending support in a dynamic reading room atmosphere promotes effective learning and skill acquisition. Moreover, fellows will participate in interventional neuroradiology training that spans a minimum of 4 weeks, which encompasses a variety of procedures such as cerebrovascular interventions, spine interventions, pain management, and image-guided procedures.

Fellows can expect to engage academically with one day per week dedicated exclusively to academic pursuits. This includes clinical resources such as advanced imaging modalities, which are essential for nuanced patient care, as well as the opportunity for experience outside the reading room through clinics, operating room observations, and interdisciplinary conferences.

Clinical and Research Resources

Fellows in the program will have access to extensive clinical resources, such as cutting-edge PET/CT technology, integrated PET/MR imaging, MR-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), functional imaging, and DTI imaging. UMMC also boasts two state-of-the-art biplane neuroangiography suites and is recognized as a major regional stroke center with an active neurointerventional program.

The program prides itself on being at the forefront of research, with fellows having the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on initiatives in informatics, 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and deep learning. Access to the facilities at the University of Maryland School of Medicine enriches the fellowship experience, allowing fellows to leverage resources like Health Sciences Library, courses in grantsmanship, and pathways to successful manuscript writing. The Maryland Center for Advanced Imaging Research (MCAIR) also offers advanced imaging research capabilities, focusing on state-of-the-art imaging technology.

Application Process

The application process for the Neuroradiology Fellowship is conducted through the NRMP match system; thus, external candidates outside the match will not be accepted. Application materials must be requested from the NRMP office and submitted to the program director once completed.

Special application requirements include various eligibility criteria; while specific thresholds such as year of graduation or maximum failed examinations are generally included in the selection criteria, interested candidates should consult with the program for precise requirements.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The Neuroradiology Fellowship provides visa support for international medical graduates (IMGs) by sponsoring J-1 visas, which enable fellows to enter the U.S. for specialized training. The program considers applications from international candidates as it maintains a diverse fellowship class that may include DO and IMG students.

Overall, the program is highly competitive, reflecting its reputation and the comprehensive training it offers. Candidates with strong academic records and significant clinical experience will be well-positioned in the selection process.