Neurosurgical Trauma Fellowship

The Department of Neurological Surgery at the University of Chicago is offering a one-year Neurotrauma Fellowship. Designed to provide an intensive and transformative experience, our one-year program is committed to shaping skilled neurosurgeons capable of addressing the multifaceted challenges of complex cranial and spinal trauma. Our fundamental aim is to cultivate decision-makers who thrive on evidence-based practices, ensuring that every aspect of trauma management aligns with the highest standards of care.

With a profound focus on both trauma clinical care and cutting-edge research, our program molds aspiring neurosurgeons for diverse career pathways. Whether you're drawn to an academic journey or a clinical pursuit, our rigorous training equips you with the necessary skills and insights to excel. Embark on this transformative opportunity, where you will not only acquire specialized expertise in neurotrauma management but also become part of a dynamic community committed to advancing the field. Join us as we shape the next generation of neurosurgeons prepared to make a significant impact in the world of complex cranial and spinal trauma.

Prospective candidates should have successfully completed a residency in Neurological Surgery and meet the State of Illinois’ requirements for medical licensure.

All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis as of the program start date. If sponsorship is needed, J-1 visas are preferred. Requests for H-1B sponsorship are considered on a case-by-case basis and based on the unique circumstances of the case and the needs of the University of Chicago Medical Center. The GME Office will provide facilitation assistance with visa sponsorship and processing.

Application requirements include:

  • Letter of interest
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Two Letters of recommendation
  • Applicant must have completed an ACGME (or foreign equivalent) accredited neurosurgery residency program by the time of the start of the fellowship date. Please provide a diploma or a notice of good standing.
  • Copies of USMLE scores and your ECGMG certificate if applicable.

Upon reviewing applications, selected candidates will be invited for a personal interview with our esteemed faculty members and staff. One candidate per year will be chosen from the received and reviewed applications. Trainees from across the globe are encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants should send their applications to Dr. Paramita Das at paramita.das@uchicagomedicine.org and copy Amy Johnson at ajohnson1@bsd.uchicago.edu.

Fellows will have access to the comprehensive facilities of the University of Chicago hospital campus, including the renowned Comer Children's Hospital. The University's wide-ranging resources, such as libraries and campus resources, will further enrich the learning experience. Our facilities encompass outpatient clinics, dedicated neurological ICU, surgical ICU, operating rooms, biplanar neurointerventional radiology suite, conference rooms, and laboratory spaces. The University of Chicago, recognized as a level 1 trauma center, stroke center, and comprehensive cancer center, houses the Safadi Program of Excellence in Clinical and Translational Neuroscience. Our trainees also benefit from cadaveric dissection labs and simulation suites at the University of Chicago.

Please note that due to our substantial clinical caseload and clinic schedules, fellows will not participate in off-site clinical activities at locations such as Orland Park, River East, Ingalls Hospital, or Silver Cross Hospital, where our faculty members also practice.

The Neurosurgical Trauma Fellowship Program at the University of Chicago Medicine is dedicated to shaping the next generation of skilled neurosurgeons equipped to handle the intricate challenges of neurotrauma. Our robust history, strong faculty, and unparalleled facilities create an environment conducive to fostering excellence in education and patient care.

For more information about the program and application procedures, please visit our Program Website or reach out to us at 

Amy Johnson

The clinical education will include education in the preoperative, intraoperative and post operative care of cranial and spinal trauma patients. The fellow will be part of a neurosurgical trauma service where they will become comfortable with bedside monitoring, common neurosurgical trauma operative techniques, and medical management. One of the twelve months of the program will be spent with the neuro ICU. In addition to that period of time the majority of critical care management will be done as a part of our larger neuro ICU team.

The fellow is welcome to join any of the neurosurgical didactics which occur weekly but are requested to be present for our weekly grand round, and also a weekly walking "trauma rounds." This will be led by the program director and be an opportunity to discuss literature and review practice guidelines in an informal setting.

There are quarterly multidisciplinary neuro trauma conferences. The fellow is responsible for presenting at one of these conferences at the end of their time with us. We encourage presentation at one national meeting, submission of one manuscript, and join our group on projects that may interest them.

Explore our comprehensive educational offerings in the field of Neurological Surgery through this page.

Our offered salary is aligned with the standards of fellowships in surgery at a PGY8 level.

Program Director (main contact)

Dr. Paramita Das

 

Program Coordinator

Amy Johnson