University of Washington Program

The University of Washington Neurological Surgery Residency Program offers a seven-year pathway designed to prepare residents for a variety of careers in neurosurgery, including academic, research, and clinical practice settings. The program is directed by Dr. Richard Ellenbogen, M.D., F.A.C.S., and is comprehensive in nature, aiming to equip residents with not only the clinical skills necessary for neurosurgical practice but also the skills required to become independent scientific investigators.

Program Highlights:

• Extensive Clinical Exposure: Residents receive comprehensive training across various neurosurgical disciplines, including Neuro-Oncology, Epilepsy Surgery, Cerebrovascular Disorders, Spine Disorders, Trauma, Pediatric Neurosurgery, Stereotactic Surgery, and more. This broad coverage ensures that residents are well-prepared for any challenges they may face in their careers.

• Diverse Training Locations: Training occurs in four affiliated hospitals within Seattle, making up one of the largest healthcare systems in the United States. This diversity affords residents the opportunity to experience a wide array of clinical settings, patient populations, and specialized care scenarios.

• Research Opportunities: Acknowledging the importance of research in advancing neurosurgical practice, the program encourages and supports residents in pursuing at least 12 months of laboratory investigation, with options to customize the training program for additional research time.

• Support for Professional Development: The program assists residents in grant and paper publication, identifying funding opportunities, and encourages participation in national and international meetings. This support system is critical for residents aiming to contribute significantly to the field of neurosurgery through research.

Application and Selection:

The program offers three residency positions annually, with applicants required to have passed USMLE Steps 1 and 2 (CK and CS) and graduated from medical school prior to matriculation. The selection process emphasizes exceptional performance in both clinical and academic settings, high USMLE Step 1 scores, and strong letters of recommendation. International medical graduates must be ECFMG certified and have passed the USMLE Steps 1 and 2 exams. The program considers sponsorship for H-1B visas and F-1 OPT applicants on an individual basis.

Training Structure:

Over seven years, residents progress from gaining foundational neurosurgical skills and knowledge in the internship year (R-1) to assuming major responsibilities and leadership roles in the junior chief resident (R-6) and chief resident (R-7) years. Key components include dedicated neuroscience education, intensive clinical rotations across the four affiliated hospitals, a substantial commitment to neurosurgical research, and elective rotations tailored to individual interests and career goals.

Stipends and Benefits:

Residents receive competitive stipends determined annually by the Washington State Legislature. Benefits include major medical, dental, and basic life insurance for residents and their dependents, options for supplemental insurance, three weeks of vacation per year, and 17 days of sick leave.

Living in Seattle:

The program boasts the additional advantage of being located in Seattle, a city known for its beautiful natural surroundings, vibrant culture, and abundant recreational activities. From outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, and kayaking to exploring diverse neighborhoods and culinary scenes, residents can enjoy a high quality of life while training in a top-tier neurosurgery program.

The University of Washington Neurological Surgery Residency Program strikes a balance between rigorous clinical training, robust research opportunities, and a supportive educational environment, all set against the backdrop of one of the most scenic and livable cities in the United States.