Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship
Thank you for your interest in the UC San Diego Musculoskeletal Imaging (MSK) Fellowship. The MSK fellowship is 12-months in duration and consists of clinical, teaching, and research responsibilities restricted to musculoskeletal imaging at three hospitals: the UC San Diego Medical Center, Thornton Pavilion (UC San Diego La Jolla), and Veterans Affairs Medical Center. The program is geared toward but not restricted to fellow candidates who are considering a career in academic musculoskeletal imaging, a field that offers excellent opportunities.
At UC San Diego, you will read studies for diverse patient types including children, VA patients, teleradiology clients and indigent patients. You will work daily with world experts in the field.
The MSK Fellowship offers a valuable year devoted to the study of musculoskeletal imaging along with a balanced program devoted to clinical, teaching and research activities. Fellows will gain experience in reading all modalities: MRI, computed tomography, and radiographs. In addition, fellows will take part in daily arthrograms, ultrasound, and CT-guided procedures at the hospitals.
Program Directors
Edward Smitaman, MD
Program Director
Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship
esmitaman@health.ucsd.edu
MSK imaging at UC San Diego
Train across MRI, CT, radiographs, ultrasound and procedures such as arthrograms at three major hospitals. Includes teaching, research and limited call.
Mariana Yanez
m4yanez@health.ucsd.edu
Applying to the Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship
We welcome all interested applicants to participate in the Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship Match, which is sponsored by the Society of Skeletal Radiology (SSR) and is managed by the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP). At the time of matriculation, you must have completed an accredited radiology residency and must be an ABR board-eligible/certified radiologist.
The dates for the 2026 radiology fellowship cycle for academic year 2028-29 appointments are:
- September 1, 2026: Applications accepted
- December 1, 2026: Application deadline
- Mid-January 2027: Interviews begin
- March 31, 2027: Interviews are completed
Application Process
Please submit your fellowship application here.
- Fellowship application form (PDF)
- Personal statement. Please discuss your career goals and personal interests.
- Three letters of recommendation (including one from your program director)
- Curriculum vitae
- Copy of dean's letter - if you need to request your dean's letter, please upload a document with your name and date as a confirmation that you have requested a copy from your medical school to be sent to us via e-mail or mail to Myra Dang (mndang@health.ucsd.edu).
- Copy of USMLE/LMCC transcript
- Copy of medical school diploma
If you wish to speak to faculty or current/former fellow participants about the program, this can be easily arranged.
Clinical Sites
Our diverse clinical sites provide a comprehensive learning environment, exposing residents to a wide range of complex cases and state-of-the-art procedures. This multi-site approach ensures that our trainees gain the skills, knowledge and experience needed to excel in interventional radiology and beyond.
Frequently asked questions
We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about our fellowship programs.
Contact Information
Edward Smitaman, MD
Program Director
Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship
Myra Dang
Fellowship Program Coordinator
mndang@health.ucsd.edu