UPMC Medical Education Program

The UPMC Neurotology Fellowship is a comprehensive two-year ACGME-accredited program dedicated to training Neurotology fellows in providing exceptional medical and surgical care for patients with otologic and neurotologic conditions. The program emphasizes educational excellence through hands-on experience, mentorship, and scholarly advancements in the field.

Fellows will engage closely with three primary Neurotology faculty members while receiving training that also includes neurosurgery, neuroradiology, audiology, radiation oncology, and vestibular neurology. Clinical training primarily occurs at the UPMC Eye & Ear Institute and affiliated hospitals, including UPMC Presbyterian, UPMC Mercy, and UPMC Shadyside. The fellowship offers a thorough surgical experience, covering all approaches to the lateral skull base, implantable devices for hearing, as well as comprehensive training in stereotactic radiosurgery. Research is a pivotal component of the fellowship, supported by protected research time and collaboration with faculty in the department, especially through the Pittsburgh Hearing Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh.

Research Opportunities

Fellows will enhance their research capabilities through mentorship from faculty involved in both clinical and basic research projects. Opportunities for collaboration exist with the Pittsburgh Hearing Research Center, which focuses on basic and translational science in disorders related to hearing. The CREATES (Collaborative Research Education and Technology Enhancement in Surgery) Center provides avenues for additional research in bioengineering and device development.

International Opportunities

The fellowship also includes global health initiatives, where fellows can participate in surgical education efforts in Mozambique led by faculty members. Such opportunities showcase the program’s commitment to expanding the educational impact beyond local borders.

Competitiveness

The UPMC Neurotology Fellowship is highly competitive, attracting applicants worldwide. Training is designed to accommodate both DO and IMG candidates, providing a welcoming environment for diverse medical backgrounds. Applicants with multiple attempts on STEP examinations are also considered, promoting inclusivity.

Visa Sponsorship

The program supports visa applications for international fellows, typically sponsoring J-1 and H-1B visas, ensuring that they can fully participate in the training program.

Application Requirements

Prospective fellows must be graduates of accredited medical schools, with a strong focus on candidates who have completed their residency in otolaryngology or a related specialty. Specific additional application requirements may apply and prospective applicants are encouraged to ensure they meet these standards before applying.

Additional Unique Aspects

The fellows will have access to a broad spectrum of clinical resources, including collaboration with the various departments and specialized training facilities. The UPMC Eye & Ear Institute and associated hospitals are recognized as leading centers in the field, allowing fellows to gain unparalleled exposure to diverse cases.

Overall, the UPMC Neurotology Fellowship in Pittsburgh stands out for its commitment to education, research, and global engagement. With a range of unique opportunities both locally and internationally, fellows are well-prepared to excel in their future careers in neurotology.