Colleen Tomcik, M.D.

Program Director

Christopher G. Tarolli, M.D.

Christopher Tarolli, MD

Associate Program Director

Marsella Pic

Jennifer Marsella, MD

Associate Program Director

Thank you so much for your interest in the University of Rochester Adult Neurology residency program! Founded in 1967, our program remains one of the most respected neurology training programs in the country, currently ranked #14 nationally by Doximity. We emphasize excellence in clinical neurology, development of residents as inspired educators, and advancement of the field through scholarly pursuits and lifelong learning. Our comprehensive training ensures that our graduates achieve success in clinical, educational, and/or research careers.

The primary goals of the training program are to provide:

Unparalleled clinical training in general and subspecialty neurology
A mastery of neuroscience gained through graduated didactic and clinical experiences
The ability for residents to actively engage in all levels of medical education
Opportunities to develop research projects tailored to the residents’ interests and ultimate career goals
Preparation for the nation’s top fellowship training programs, including the impressive array of subspecialty fellowships offered at URMC

UR Adult Neurology Residency Program At-a-Glance:

Eight positions per year
Four-year categorical program
Fully integrated internal medicine internship, with twelve weeks of inpatient Neurology and Neurology continuity clinic beginning in the PGY-1 year
Extensive clinical exposure to the full spectrum of neurological conditions in a diverse patient population served by Strong Memorial Hospital, voted the top hospital in New York State outside of the NYC metro area by U.S. News & World Report
Over 6 months of flexible and individualized elective time, including unique international opportunities in Europe, Africa, and South America
Night float system and reasonable call schedule
Chief residents serve as instructors in the Mind, Brain and Behavior Course for second-year medical students
Comprehensive and innovative didactic program for residents in a protected academic half-day format

Program Strengths:

Over 100 enthusiastic world-class faculty in General Neurology and all major subspecialties
Structured, multi-faceted resident mentoring program that provides career, research and leadership development
Institutional and departmental dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment
Emphasis on quality, patient safety, and multi-disciplinary team-based care
Wide range of resident research opportunities, from basic to translational science and clinical trials, to quality improvement and educational projects, supervised by experts in the field
Close-knit collegial atmosphere that prioritizes resident wellness and feedback
High-quality lifestyle in an affordable, accessible, and vibrant city-voted the second friendliest city in the United States in 2023 by CondéNast Traveler

While all of this is certainly impressive, what truly sets our residency apart is our people. Whether in the clinics, on the wards, or at trivia night, you can feel the camaraderie among residents, faculty, and staff. We cultivate a culture of kindness for each other and for our patients and their families, and it makes the University of Rochester a truly special place to train. We invite you to experience it for yourself - please submit an application.

Meliora!

Colleen B. Tomcik, MD
Program Director

Discover the Neurology Residency

What Our Residents Say...

I was drawn to URMC Neurology because it truly embodies the epitome of neurologic training. Starting in the first year, we begin our journey as neurologists in our outpatient continuity clinic, where we care for our own cohort of patients. Throughout our four years, we have an unparalleled exposure to the entire breadth of neurology in all of its subspecialties. Additionally, we are able to embrace our role not only as resident physicians, but also as resident educators. Our program is unique in its strong emphasis on medical education, with multiple opportunities for mentorship and research in that area. Finally, in my time as a resident thus far, I have felt the spirit of collegiality and teamwork among the faculty and my co-residents, which has provided a positive atmosphere for me to grow as a neurologist.

Ryan F. Wolfe, MD (PGY-2)

Medical School: Boston University School of Medicine

Hometown: Stamford, CT

Meet Our Residents

What Our Alumni Say

As an alumnus of the University of Rochester School of Medicine, adult neurology residency program and neuro-oncology fellowship, I cannot speak highly enough about the support, education, and guidance that I received throughout my training in Rochester. Residency at the University of Rochester was so much more than learning to be an exceptional and well-rounded neurologist – it was about having a voice as a resident, being a valued member of the department, and working in a place where I was empowered to drive change in the health system. UR Neurology is a family and as a resident, the feeling of belonging is immediate and lifelong. I am forever grateful for the connections, mentorship, and skills I have from my residency training – the emphasis on elevating neurology education has given me the ability to succeed in my role as a clinical educator early in my career. If I had to choose residency again – I would pick the University of Rochester without hesitation.

Lauryn E. Hemminger, M.D. (she/her)

Director, Neuro-oncology Fellowship
Director, Neurology Acting Internship
Associate Director, Neurology Clerkship
Assistant Professor of Neurology, Division of Neuro-oncology
University of Rochester Medical Center

Meet Our Graduates