Our programs are dedicated to fostering curiosity, innovation, and academic excellence in the field of Radiology. Whether developing novel AI applications, investigating imaging biomarkers, or contributing to clinical trials, our department encourages the transformation of ideas into meaningful discoveries.
Trainees at all levels—undergraduates, medical students, residents, and fellows—are encouraged to actively engage in research through a variety of pathways tailored to their interests and experience.
Program Offerings
Journal Club
Our Radiology Journal Club cultivates critical thinking, promotes evidence-based decision-making, and encourages collaborative learning among residents and faculty. Held quarterly during the noon conference hour, each session offers residents the opportunity to present and analyze recent peer-reviewed literature in a supportive, discussion-driven environment.
Topics span the full spectrum of diagnostic and interventional radiology and are thoughtfully aligned with subspecialty rotations and current clinical challenges. Guided by a schedule developed by the Chief Residents, three residents are selected to present during each session, with 15 minutes allocated per presentation followed by a 5-minute Q&A.
Every resident is guaranteed the opportunity to present a case of their choice at least once during their training, ensuring broad participation and exposure to diverse perspectives. Faculty mentors and peers provide valuable feedback, enriching the learning experience and reinforcing the importance of scholarly engagement in clinical practice.
Radiology Research Day
Radiology Research Day
is a cornerstone of our academic calendar, designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and provide trainees with valuable experience in presenting scholarly work. This annual spring event highlights original research conducted by Diagnostic Radiology and Interventional Radiology Residents, as well as Radiology Fellows.
Held during a lunchtime session, the event features rapid-fire presentations with each speaker limited to five minutes, followed by audience Q&A. All participants submit their research in advance, and presentations are evaluated by an in-house panel of judges. Winners are announced at the June graduation ceremony, with top projects receiving awards of up to $1,000, generously sponsored by Professor and Chair Emeritus, M. Paul Capp, MD, a tradition he started which is now in its second decade.
The most recent Research Day event was held on the stage at DuVal Auditorium. Participation is open to all, and we invite you to explore our YouTube channel to view highlights from past presentations and celebrate the innovative work of our trainees.
College of Medicine - Tucson Research Day
Trainees are able to participate in the annual COM-T Research Day event. This annual event celebrates the vibrant research community across all levels of training 
showcasing original work from faculty and trainees spanning basic science, clinical research, and translational innovation. Held each spring, Research Day offers a platform for poster presentations, oral sessions, and networking opportunities that foster collaboration and highlight the impact of academic inquiry on patient care and medical education.
National Radiological Organizations
Our residents and fellows are strongly encouraged to engage with national radiology organizations and actively participate in leading professional meetings. These experiences foster academic growth, professional networking, and exposure to cutting-edge advancements in imaging science.
Residents regularly attend major national conferences hosted by the American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS), the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), and the Association of Academic Radiologists (AAR). In addition, our trainees have a proud tradition of involvement in subspecialty societies, including:
- Western Neuroradiological Society (WNRS)
- Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR)
- Society of Thoracic Radiology (STR)
- Global Embolization Symposium and Technologies (GEST)
- Society of Abdominal Radiology (SAR)
Leadership and Learning Opportunities
Our programs are proud to support and encourage resident participation in nationally recognized leadership and academic development initiatives. Through programs like ARRALD and ITAR, our residents gain invaluable exposure to the broader academic radiology community, build professional networks, and develop the skills needed to become future leaders in the field.
RLI: Radiology Leadership Institute
The American College of Radiology’s Radiology Leadership Institute (RLI) offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to cultivate leadership skills among radiologists at every career stage. Learn more about career training opportunities at RLI
ARRALD: Academic Radiology Resident Leadership Development
Hosted by the Association of University Radiologists (AUR), the ARRALD Program is designed to cultivate leadership potential among senior radiology residents. This immersive experience empowers residents to explore pathways in academic medicine and contribute meaningfully to the future of radiology education. Learn more about ARRALD
ITAR: Introduction to Academic Radiology
Sponsored by the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), the ITAR Program introduces residents to the excitement and impact of academic careers in radiology. Held during the RSNA Annual Meeting, ITAR emphasizes the role of research in diagnostic radiology and provides participants with the opportunity to connect with leading clinical researchers, potential mentors, and future colleagues. Learn more about ITAR
Many of our residents have been honored with selection to these prestigious programs, reflecting their dedication to academic excellence and leadership. We are proud to feature several of our past participants below.
| Year | Program Awardee |
|---|---|
| 2019 | ARRALD: David Sawyer, MD |
| ITAR: Gokhan Kuyumcu, MD | |
| 2020 | ITAR: Abdul Khan, MD |
| 2021 | ITAR: Mark Greenhill, DO |
| 2022 | ARRALD: Jason Lee, MD |
| ITAR: Stephane Chartier, DO | |
| 2023 | ARRALD: Audrey Nisbet, MD |
| 2024 | ITAR: Miles Seidel, MD |
| 2025 | ARRALD: Andrew Nguyen, DO |
| ITAR: Damon Motamedi, MD |
Getting Involved in Research
All trainees are expected to engage in research during their training, reflecting the program’s commitment to academic inquiry and professional development. 
While some may choose to fulfill the minimum research requirements outlined by the American Board of Radiology, others may opt for a deeper, more immersive experience—contributing to high-impact projects, presenting at national conferences, or publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Our programs support both pathways, offering mentorship and resources tailored to each individual’s goals and interests.
Research Resources
- Faculty Mentorship: trainees benefit from close collaboration with faculty mentors, either one-on-one or in small groups, who provide guidance throughout the research process, including project design, data collection, manuscript development, oral presentation skills, and publication strategies.
- Located in the Bioscience Research Laboratory, the Translational Bioimaging Resource (TBIR) is a university-wide hub for pre-clinical biomedical imaging. The TBIR provides access to cutting-edge technology, including two newly installed AI-powered MRI systems: the Siemens MAGNETOM Cima.X 3T for advanced brain imaging and the Free.Max 0.55T for whole-body applications. Read more about the ribbon-cutting ceremony for these new MRI systems.
- Clinical Research Coordination: with the addition of a dedicated Clinical Research Coordinator/Research Manager, we are building a more structured and collaborative research environment that integrates our clinicians and PhD researchers across disciplines. Our vision is providing enhanced support, streamlining processes, and expanding opportunities for trainee involvement.
More Information
Research support is available to current Residents and Fellows. For addiational information, please contact:
Kym Smith
Clinical Research Coordinator III
Radiology and Imaging Sciences
(520) 621-2222