Help Shape a Neurosurgery Residency at Southwest Academic Health System

A medical center partnered with a renowned academic institution in the Southwest invites applications for neurosurgeons interested in academic medicine with subspecialty expertise in spine, dual neurovascular, pediatric, and functional. Newly trained graduates and those with experience are both encouraged to apply. Endoscopic spine interests are highly desired. Ideal pediatric neurosurgery candidates will have an interest in a mix of adult and peds cases.

This is a distinctive opportunity to step into a role that blends clinical practice, academic productivity, and program building at a pivotal moment of growth. These positions are designed for physicians who are excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of neurosurgical care and education across an underserved region.

The selected candidates will participate in the development, accreditation, and early implementation of a new Neurosurgery Residency Program.

The neurosurgery team currently includes 5 physicians, 5 APPs, and 13 support staff, creating a strong base for both clinical care and future expansion. The practice is established, with the opportunity to build a busy clinic quickly. Call responsibilities are structured and supported. APP‑supported trauma call is rotated among all neurosurgery faculty. The practice covers one hospital only, allowing the faculty to focus efforts within a single, coordinated clinical environment.

Practice Environment

The neurosurgery program is supported by advanced surgical and imaging technology that enables a broad and sophisticated scope of practice. Available resources include:

• Two second‑generation O‑Arm imaging systems
• Three Medtronic S8 Stealth navigation workstations
• Stryker cranial navigation platform
• Pentero microscopes
• Kinevo system with 5‑ALA capability

Surgical infrastructure also includes Jackson tables, 24/7 intraoperative neuromonitoring supported by dedicated neuromonitoring technologists and additional contract support as needed. A 10‑bed Neuro ICU further supports the acuity and complexity of the neurosurgical service. Clinically, the program offers an environment defined by high volume, broad pathology, and meaningful multidisciplinary collaboration. The neurosurgery service works alongside neurologists, oncologists, orthopedic surgeons, and other specialists in the care of patients with complex neurological conditions. The patient catchment area spans a large region, contributing to a diverse and clinically rich case mix. For a physician who values both complexity and impact, the setting offers the chance to practice at a high level while helping a department that is positioned for continued growth.

Medical Center

The medical center serves as the primary teaching hospital for the institution and is the region’s leading academic medical center. It is a 500‑bed facility and was the first hospital in its state to receive a Level I Trauma designation. Recognized as one of the best companies to work for in its state, the healthcare system boasts over 115 providers covering primary care and specialty areas such as gastroenterology, obstetrics, and neurosurgery since its establishment.

Area Highlights

This city offers the scale and amenities of a regional hub with the accessibility and livability of a smaller city. It is a growing educational, commercial, medical, and cultural center with a metropolitan population of more than 200,000. The city enjoys mild seasonal conditions and an average of 267 days of sunshine per year. As the medical center for its broad region, this city supports a strong healthcare infrastructure, including eight hospitals and more than 85 clinics.
This city also offers an easy daily lifestyle. Housing costs are low, commutes are short, and most destinations are less than 20 minutes away. The community offers a wide range of amenities for individuals and families, including strong school systems, beautiful parks, delightful restaurants, local shopping, and a lively cultural scene that includes museums, theater, symphony, ballet, and community arts. College athletics add energy and year‑round events, while outdoor enthusiasts enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, golf, equestrian activities, and seasonal hunting. The mountains, with winter sports and weekend getaway options, are within a four‑hour drive.
Perhaps most importantly, this city is known for being welcoming and down‑to‑earth. It offers a quality of life that many physicians find particularly appealing: a collegial community, room to build a life and career, and the ability to make a visible difference in the place they serve.