Clinical Observers & Visiting Scholars

Learn at One of the Most Dynamic Centers for Neurology and Neurosurgery in the World

The visiting scholar and neuroscience observer program at Barrow Neurological Institute enhances the rigorous academic environment here. International scholars (fully trained neurosurgeons) who visit Barrow for short-term or extended stays greatly improve their understanding of what is possible in advanced clinical neurosurgery, as well as how the latest in neuroscience research translates into patient care. These scholars in turn enrich our learning environment by the unique international perspective they share with faculty and students on the treatment of neurosurgical patients around the world.

Franke International Visiting Scholars and Clinical Observership Program

The Franke Global Neuroscience Education Center is funding two clinical observership positions at Barrow Neurological Institute for 2025. This opportunity is available to neurosurgery and neurology trainees who are enrolled in a residency program in a low- or middle-income country, or neurosurgeons and neurologists who have completed such a residency within the past five years. Please note that students currently enrolled in medical school are not eligible for this program.

This funding covers roundtrip airfare (basic economy) and lodging for up to three months of neurological or neurosurgical observation at Barrow Neurological Institute. Candidates will be selected through a competitive review process conducted by our neurology and neurosurgery committee members.

Application timeline: Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, 2024
Minimum time commitment: Four weeks on-site

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Barrow foreign observers with Robert F. Spetzler, MD

Purpose

To provide visiting neuroscience faculty from around the country and especially from foreign countries the opportunity to learn techniques and skills which allow them to improve the overall treatment and care of their patients, as well as share their perspective on clinical management techniques with our residents, fellows, and attending physicians.

Clinical Observers and Foreign Scholars Fact Sheet

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Dr. Huy Le Quang pictured at the end of his clinical observership with Dr. Michael T. Lawton.

Dr. Elisa Garbin, Italy

“Having an insight into Barrow Neurological Institute’s neurosurgical philosophy has been one of the best experiences for my career. All the people I met were full of energy… all the moments I lived at Barrow were remarkable possibilities for growth. Dr. Michael Lawton and all his team made me feel at home and have gently inspired me to push my boundaries, to become a better doctor, to go out from my comfort zone, and to try and try in order to improve my skills. This outstanding chance exceeded all my expectations, and I will cherish every memory. I think every doctor or scientist interested in neuroscience should have an insight into Barrow’s incredible world.”

Dr. Huy Le Quang, Vietnam

“In the tapestry of medical care, Barrow Neurological Institute stands out not just for its excellence but as a place where skill, empathy, and genuine human connection come together. My deep gratitude goes to these professionals who continue to shape and restore lives with both expertise and heart. I’ll carry the knowledge gained here to help my loved ones back in Vietnam who are facing health challenges.”

Dr. Teresa Kalantari García, Spain

“My experience at Barrow was incredible. Every day, I witnessed numerous procedures of the utmost complexity—cases that wouldn’t be handled anywhere else in the world. The teamwork is astonishing, making everything run even more smoothly. Moreover, everyone is friendly and eager to help. It’s a fantastic opportunity to observe how other teams operate, especially one of the best in the world. I would recommend it to everyone.” Also pictured: Inaugural Franke Global Neurosurgery Fellow Dr. Kerry Vaughan; Program Manager Ravneet Kaur; and observers Dr. Pedro Aguiar, Dr. Soumia Benallag, Dr. Elisa Gabin, Dr. William Singleton (U.K.), and Dr. Carlos Toledano (Spain).

Dr. Soumia Benallag, Algeria

“The opportunity to delve into the world of neurosurgery in Barrow, particularly vascular neurosurgery, has been nothing short of transformative, and the knowledge and skills I acquired have greatly broadened my understanding of the field. The professionals at Barrow were incredibly supportive, making my learning experience both enriching and enjoyable. I had the privilege of closely observing highly complex surgeries, meeting remarkable individuals, and sharing awe-inspiring experiences that will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors. I encourage anyone with a passion for neurosurgery to seize the opportunity to apply for an observership at Barrow Neurological Institute.”

Pedro Aguiar, Portugal

“I had a deeply rewarding time at Barrow Neurological Institute. I observed highly complex spine and brain surgeries from which I could learn new surgical techniques and approaches. Additionally, everyone I worked with was very welcoming and professional. I definitely recommend every aspiring neurosurgeon to do an observership at Barrow, as they will surely carry professional and personal lessons that will make them better surgeons.”

Hadi Maraqa

“At Barrow, you have a perfect environment and world-class specialists, fellows, and residents. Of course, you can’t forget the amazing working staff in the Academic Affairs; it won’t be easy without them. Actually, it is as they say that ‘Barrow is the Disneyland of the neuro world’ And I can’t imagine doing my elective course in a way better than this.”

Dr. Juan Pablo Leal Isaza

“This is one of the best hospitals around the world to learn about the brain and spine. Having the extra luck that Dr. Juan Uribe is from Colombia and be able to reach him to get the observership was a blessing. It was also great to get to know Dr. Volker Sonntag, a father of spine surgery, and Dr. Michael Lawton, an amazing human being and authority in neurovascular surgery. I am grateful for the whole team. They felt like family.”

Olga Ciobanu-Caraus

“My time as visiting scholar at Barrow was a wonderful experience which gave me invaluable insights into Dr. Lawton’s work and neurosurgical philosophy. Observing the way he shares his passion and enthusiasm with his entire team, how he continuously pushes the boundaries of what we consider feasible, and the sense of compassion and kindness with which he treats his staff, patients, and guests, is deeply inspirational. Barrow also taught me about the value of true camaraderie, teamwork, and department culture. Everyone at Barrow works with a devotion and dedication that create this unique culture, and I think my three-months observership was a personally enriching experience which will not only allow me to apply the knowledge gained here but also to carry forward the Barrow spirit and implement it into my daily neurosurgical practice.”

Dr. Pere J. Cifre Serra

“My observership at Barrow Neurological Institute was a life-changing experience. … Not only were we able to witness Dr. Lawton and other world-renowned neurosurgeons master surgical skills in the OR, but we also could make the most of their will to share their knowledge and expertise during teaching rounds almost every day. Academically, it could not have been better. But I wouldn’t want to miss the chance to say that the whole group of people that work at Barrow made us feel like home from day one to the last one. That is why I can safely say that I found the perfect combination to grow personally and professionally. I have no doubt that Barrow observership will have a great impact on the rest of my neurosurgical career.”

Clinical Observers & Visiting Scholars

Learn at One of the Most Dynamic Centers for Neurology and Neurosurgery in the World

Franke International Visiting Scholars and Clinical Observership Program

Purpose

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Dr. Elisa Garbin, Italy

Dr. Huy Le Quang, Vietnam

Dr. Teresa Kalantari García, Spain

Dr. Soumia Benallag, Algeria

Pedro Aguiar, Portugal

Hadi Maraqa

Dr. Juan Pablo Leal Isaza

Olga Ciobanu-Caraus

Dr. Pere J. Cifre Serra

About Barrow Neurological Institute

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Clinical Observers & Visiting Scholars

Learn at One of the Most Dynamic Centers for Neurology and Neurosurgery in the World

Franke International Visiting Scholars and Clinical Observership Program

Purpose

Categories of Visiting Scholars

Requirements for Approval of Visiting Scholars

Educational Objectives

Limitations

Certificate of Completion

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Dr. Elisa Garbin, Italy

Dr. Huy Le Quang, Vietnam

Dr. Teresa Kalantari García, Spain

Dr. Soumia Benallag, Algeria

Pedro Aguiar, Portugal

Hadi Maraqa

Dr. Juan Pablo Leal Isaza

Olga Ciobanu-Caraus

Dr. Pere J. Cifre Serra