Welcome and thank you for your interest in the Cardiothoracic Surgery training program at Rush University Medical Center. The department is led by Michael J. Liptay, MD, The Mary and John Bent Professor of Surgery and Chairman of the Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. Our program director is Nicole M. Geissen, DO, and the associate program director is Antone Tatooles, MD.
A message from Dr. Liptay and Dr. Geissen
Through a stimulating and dynamic two-year curriculum, our committed faculty will comprehensively train you to provide the highest-quality cardiac and general thoracic surgical care. The high volume and variety of pathologies seen at Rush University Medical Center, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, and Advocate Christ Medical Center allows for a rigorous and diverse surgical experience. Many of our graduates advance to excellent academic and private practice opportunities or secure prestigious fellowship training positions at world-class institutions.
In our program, you will build an understanding of anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology of adult cardiovascular, respiratory and upper gastrointestinal diseases through peri-operative care, performing cardiothoracic surgical procedures and post operative follow up. Fellows are exposed to minimally invasive thoracic surgery, including complex endoscopic, laparoscopic, VATS and robotic approaches; as well as new and innovative techniques in adult cardiac surgery including percutaneous valve implantation, ventricular assist devices, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, transplantation, and aortic stent grafting.
Best wishes on your career journey,
Nicole M. Geissen, DO
Program Director
Michael J. Liptay, MD
Chairman
How to Apply - Fellowship Application Process
Each year, we appoint two fellows on August 1. The program includes one fellow per year in the cardiac & thoracic track.
To be considered, you must have completed an Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited general surgical residency and be eligible for examination by the American Board of Surgery. You may then apply for examination by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery.
The selection process is based on the match system. Please contact the National Residency Matching Program’s office at (202) 400-2233 for registration information regarding the match.
Please submit an Electronic Residency Application Service fellowship application along with the following:
- At least three letters of recommendation, including one from your surgery chair.
- Copies of your In-Training Examination scores.
- U.S. Medical Licensing Examination, Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates and visa documentation (if relevant).
- A recent photograph.
- Please also include your email address to expedite communication.
If you are granted an interview, we will contact you by email with details. For more information, please email Amaris at amaris_m_vasquez@rush.edu
Interview Dates
To be determined
Why choose Rush?
Training in Chicagoland offers a unique combination of top-tier academic health systems, high patient diversity, and rich urban resources. Click here to learn more about Life at Rush!
Rush University is committed to supporting house staff through a full range of dedicated benefits and services. Click here to learn more about Rush Housestaff Benefits and Services!
Get a glimpse of where you will work during your fellowship, and learn why Chicago is a great place to live and train. Learn more about the advantages of Rush.
House staff lead you on a virtual tour of the facilities at Rush University Medical Center.