At the University of Florida, we offer Interventional Radiology Training via the Independent IR Residency. Our program is ACGME accredited. We are approved for four total positions. We will take applicants with and without ESIR designation into consideration.
The strengths of our program are fellow autonomy and procedure volume/variety. We encourage early hands on experience and the fellow can expect to be primary operator and/or independent operator for the majority of their fellow year. Procedural strengths are TIPS, hepatobiliary/transplant procedures, interventional oncology, trauma, vascular access and routine bread and butter IR. We have supplemented areas of procedural deficiency with outside rotations emphasizing the performance of both peripheral arterial/venous interventions and vertebral augmentations.
The work atmosphere is collegial and fun. Emphasis is on learning safety, quality and efficiency. We strive for a healthy work/life balance. The training equally prepares graduates for academia or busy private practice.
Check out our program brochure.

Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR)
The purpose of ESIR is to offer an alternative pathway for diagnostic radiology residents who indicate a desire to enter IR training early in their DR training. ESIR training consists of 12 IR or IR-related rotations during their PGY2 – 5 years, with documentation of having performed 500 IR or IR-related procedures. Diagnostic radiology residents who select to complete the ESIR curriculum and meet the IR procedural requirements, may receive credit for year one, in the IR Residency (Independent), and directly enter into year two of the Independent Residency; completing training within six years.
IR – Independent Residency
The 1-2 year IR-Independent residency will provide a broad and more in-depth experience in the clinical diagnosis and care of patients with diseases commonly treated by an interventional radiologist. Furthermore, the residency allows the trainees an opportunity to become more familiar with and participate in research to further the field of vascular and interventional radiology.
The residency curriculum is configured to provide education and competency experiences in IR and IR-related services as surgical ICU, Liver/Kidney Transplant, Hepatology, body IR procedures, and consult services that includes IR clinic. In the first year of the two-year residency, the trainee will spend at least nine months in IR. In the second year, a minimum of eight months.
The program offers up to four Independent Residency positions that will match through the NRMP.
Applicants to the program must have completed a diagnostic radiology residency in an ACGME- or RCPSC-accredited diagnostic radiology program. Applicants must have passed the ABR Core exam at the time of entry into the program.
To be eligible for appointment in the second year of education in an independent program, residents must have completed an Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR) curriculum in a diagnostic radiology program that has prior approval from the Review Committee for ESIR participation.
Graduates of the IR-Independent residency qualify to take the IR/DR exam offered by the American Board of Radiology (ABR). The dual certification recognizes competency in both diagnostic and interventional radiology.
Curriculum
We offer up to four independent positions per year.
Year 1
- 9-10 IR Rotations
- 1 SICU Rotation
- 1 Body IR Rotation
- 1 Clinic/Consultation/Non-Invasive Imaging Rotation
- 1 Optional/Elective Rotation focusing on Vertebral Augmentation, PAD (would replace one of the general IR Rotations)
Year 2
- 11-12 IR Rotations
- 1 Clinic / Consultation / Non-Invasive Imaging Rotation
- 1 Optional/Elective Rotation focusing on Vertebral Augmentation, PAD (would replace one of the general IR Rotations)
*Each rotation is 4 weeks – there are 13 rotations per year.
** Residents who meet the ESIR requirements will complete the second year curriculum.**
How to Apply
Applications for entry into our program will commence December 1st. Applications are only accepted via ERAS. Please note that we are only able to sponsor J1 visas.
Applicants to the program must have completed or are completing a diagnostic radiology residency in an ACGME- or RCPSC-accredited diagnostic radiology program.
Documents Required:
- MyERAS application
- Medical school transcript
- Three letters of recommendation
- USMLE Step I, Step II CK, CS, Step III
- Up to date curriculum vitae
- Medical School Performance Evaluation
- ECFMG certified at the time of application (international medical graduates only)
- ESIR applicants will submit a “Verification of Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR) Training” form as part of their ERAS application.
Interview
Save the date! We will be holding in-person interviews January 13, 17, 27 and 31. February 3, 14 and March 3 and 10.
We understand the convenience of virtual interviews, but we believe that the atmosphere and collegiality at UF add significantly to your training in Interventional Radiology. Although not required; we hope that you interview in person with us, which will allow you to see the dynamics which we are so proud of in our training of future Interventional Radiologists.
IN-PERSON INTERVIEW
The in-person interview is a one-day experience that begins at 8:00 am and ends at approx. 3:00 pm (depending on your travel schedule). You will meet with several of the IR Faculty for individual interviews, spend time touring our IR Department, and you will have a chance to meet with current fellows, residents and staff. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Dress is business casual. One of the fellows will contact you prior to your interview to see if your schedule permits a pre-interview dinner with the fellows.
Virtual interview dates are TBD.
VIRTUAL INTERVIEW
The virtual interview format consists of two 20 minute interviews via Thalamus. One with the Program Director and/or Section Chief and one with a faculty member. There will be a social hour with the current fellows the week of your interview. You will receive an email from the IR Chief Fellow containing a zoom link for the social hour.
Please make sure you have a quiet, well-lit place to conduct your interview, free from distractions and interruptions.
Please review the Thalamus Instructions for Applicants document on how to access the virtual platform on interview day.
Contact
We appreciate your interest in our program. For questions or additional information, please contact:
Kiersten Simmons
Helpful Links
SIR: Early Specialization in Interventional Radiology (ESIR)
SIR: Independent IR Residency Match
National Resident Matching Program
AAMC Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS)