University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Program

Neuroradiology Fellowship Program Overview

The Neuroradiology Fellowship program emphasizes teaching excellence, cutting-edge technology, and a wide array of case material. This program is designed to train fellows in key clinical areas including brain, spine, head and neck, pediatric neuroradiology, and advanced imaging techniques. With renowned faculty providing mentorship, fellows are also exposed to research opportunities that span translational research, artificial intelligence, and informatics.

This fellowship is accredited by the American College of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and typically lasts for one year, with the option for a second year of additional subspecialty training as a clinical instructor. The fellowship includes a robust application process via the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) and matches participants through the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP).

Program Structure

Fellows are expected to rotate through six distinct clinical services, gaining hands-on experience in various subspecialties. These clinical services include:

• Main Reading Room
• Head and Neck Imaging
• Pediatric Neuroradiology
• Advanced Imaging
• Neuroendovascular Services
• Late Shift/“Niner” Rotation

Each rotation is meticulously structured to not only build technical skills but also enhance clinical efficiency in a fast-paced environment.

Main Reading Room Rotation

This rotation serves as the cornerstone of the fellowship, where fellows interpret adult brain and spine cases covering a spectrum of conditions, from neoplastic to infectious diseases. Additionally, fellows perform image-guided procedures, such as lumbar punctures and myelograms.

Head and Neck Imaging Rotation

Unique to this fellowship, fellows benefit from a dedicated curriculum, mentored by specialists with deep expertise in head and neck neuroradiology, covering extensive topics including maxillofacial trauma and temporal bone analysis.

Pediatric Neuroradiology Rotation

This rotation occurs at the American Family Children’s Hospital, where fellows analyze complex pediatric cases with the guidance of a pediatric neuroradiologist, furthering their skills in fetal MRI and neonatal ultrasound.

Advanced Imaging Rotation

Fellows review advanced imaging modalities, including BOLD-contrast functional MRIs, diffusion tensor imaging, and participate in protocol development.

Neuroendovascular Rotation

Shared between Neuroradiology and Neurosurgery, this rotation allows fellows to involve in neuroendovascular procedures, ensuring they meet ACGME criteria for angiograms performed.

Late Shift/“Niner” Rotation

Covering clinical responsibilities in a call-like experience, this rotation helps fellows develop clinical operation efficiency while building their confidence and independence in neuroradiology.

Educational Curriculum

The fellowship emphasizes a strong educational foundation through a series of didactic sessions, interdisciplinary conferences, and research opportunities:

• Weekly Fellows’ Conferences
• MR Physics Didactic Series
• Journal Club Leadership

These established educational frameworks encourage fellows to engage in continuous learning and professional development.

Research Opportunities

Fellows have access to diverse research initiatives involving clinical imaging research in areas such as radiomics, radiogenomics, and functional connectivity. Each fellow is required to engage in a scholarly project, supported by faculty mentorship, and must present work at relevant conferences.

Life in Madison

Madison is recognized as a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene and a plethora of outdoor activities, making it an ideal place for both work-life balance and personal enjoyment.

Visa and Application Competitiveness

The Neuroradiology Fellowship program offers visa sponsorship for eligible candidates, typically providing support for J-1 and H-1B visa types. The program is known to be competitive, and it welcomes applications from both DO and IMG candidates, reflecting its commitment to diverse medical training backgrounds.

Application Requirements

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must have completed an accredited residency in Diagnostic Radiology and possess a Wisconsin medical license prior to starting the fellowship. The selection process adheres to the policies laid out by the Society of Chairs of Academic Radiology Departments (SCARD) as well as NRMP guidelines.