University of Pennsylvania Health System Program

The University of Pennsylvania Health System program in Clinical Neurophysiology, part of the Department of Neurology, is dedicated to training future leaders in the field. The program emphasizes a balance of extensive clinical training, personalized mentorship, and opportunities for research, catering to the career aspirations of its fellows. Located in Philadelphia, this program offers a vibrant environment for both academic and clinical development, benefiting from the resources of one of the nation’s oldest medical schools and its affiliated hospitals.

Program Overview

The Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania is structured to develop competencies in electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction studies. The program aims to ensure that fellows not only acquire advanced skills in technical procedures but also cultivate a robust understanding of neurophysiological principles and their clinical applications. This includes exposure to various subspecialties, such as epilepsy, neuromuscular disorders, and sleep medicine, setting the groundwork for a well-rounded clinical acumen.

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Curriculum and Rotations

The fellowship typically spans one to two years, allowing for both clinical practice and research initiatives. Clinical training occurs predominantly at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, known for its comprehensive care and advanced medical technologies. Fellows will engage in a variety of rotations that include, but are not limited to:

• Clinical Neurophysiology
• Electroencephalography (EEG)
• Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies
• Involvement in outpatient and inpatient settings, including pediatric training at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Fellows will also participate in multidisciplinary conferences, case discussions, and journal clubs, which help foster a collaborative learning environment and encourage participation in ongoing research activities.

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Research Opportunities

The research component of the fellowship plays a critical role in advancing the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders. Thanks to grants such as the NINDS R25 and NIH T32, fellows pursuing research-oriented tracks can gain additional laboratory time and mentorship. Options for research engagements include projects on epilepsy surgery outcomes, neurophysiological studies, and neuromuscular disorders. Fellows can also pursue master's degrees in areas such as Clinical Epidemiology or Healthcare Administration to enhance their academic credentials.

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Training Sites

Fellows primarily train at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, supported by additional rotations at key facilities within the Penn Health System. Training sites include:

• The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), renowned for its pediatric services
• Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, recognized for its critical care
• Pennsylvania Hospital, the first hospital in the United States, offering specialized neurology services
• The Veterans Hospital, which serves veterans with a range of neurological conditions

This geographic integration and access to diverse patient populations enable a comprehensive training experience.

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Visa Support and Sponsorship

The University of Pennsylvania Health System provides visa support for international fellows, specifically sponsoring J-1 visas. This allows for international medical graduates (IMGs) to participate in the fellowship program while fulfilling the necessary immigration requirements.

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Competitiveness and Applicant Requirements

The fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania is known to be highly competitive. Interested applicants must possess a valid medical degree and have completed residency training in Neurology or a related field. Given the program's reputation and academic rigor, the selection process may favor candidates demonstrating not only clinical excellence but also a strong commitment to advancing the field of neurophysiology. Special application requirements include a maximum number of failed steps on the USMLE exams and a recommendation from prior mentors, which will strengthen a candidate's application profile.

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