At UCI’s Department of Radiological Sciences, you will be part of a specialized Musculoskeletal Radiology team that plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthopedic, sports medicine, and rheumatologic conditions. This position offers a balanced mix of diagnostic imaging, interventional procedures, and academic engagement, with access to state-of-the-art imaging technology in a leading academic institution.
Your primary responsibility will be the interpretation of MSK MRI, CT, and radiographs, focusing on both peripheral extremities and spine imaging. The patient population includes individuals referred by orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists, sports medicine specialists, and rheumatologists, providing a steady stream of complex and high-impact cases. The number of MSK studies performed annually will vary depending on the number of residents and fellows in a given year.
In addition to diagnostic imaging, you will also perform interventional MSK procedures as needed, including CT/ultrasound-guided biopsies, joint injections, and aspirations. There is also an opportunity to expand into advanced interventions such as kyphoplasty and tumor ablation, though the frequency of interventional procedures will depend on clinical demand.
The call schedule is structured and predictable, with a 1:6 rotation dedicated exclusively to MSK cases. Call responsibilities are limited to weekends only, and overnight coverage is not required. Since residents and fellows provide primary call coverage, disruptions are minimal. While faculty members may pick up additional shifts, there is no separate call stipend, as call coverage is included in the overall compensation package.
As a faculty member at UCI, you will have access to some of the most advanced imaging technology available, including 3T/1.5T MRI, spectral CT, and photon counting CT. A dedicated team of MSK-trained technologists and clinical support staff ensures efficient workflow and high-quality imaging. You will also work in a highly collaborative environment, with direct interaction with specialists in orthopedics, rheumatology, and sports medicine.
Beyond clinical work, UCI offers a robust academic environment with dedicated research coordinators and AI/engineering collaborations available for advanced projects. While grant funding is not required at this level, 20% protected academic time is guaranteed for two years, with opportunities to publish and contribute to UCI’s Center for Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostic Medicine. Teaching will be a core component of this role, including mentoring residents and fellows and participating in structured lectures and educational sessions as part of the department’s academic mission.
A day in this role is dynamic and fulfilling. Mornings may begin with MSK MRI and CT interpretations for professional athletes and post-operative orthopedic patients, followed by ultrasound-guided joint injections for pain relief. Midday, you might engage in resident and fellow education, sharing insights on cutting-edge imaging techniques. The afternoon could be dedicated to AI-driven research projects, developing the next generation of musculoskeletal imaging solutions. By evening, you finish the day with a structured MSK-only call rotation, knowing you are part of a highly specialized team with strong academic and clinical support.
This position is ideal for a radiologist seeking a well-balanced career in musculoskeletal imaging, with a mix of clinical excellence, research innovation, and medical education in a highly supportive academic environment.