The Radiology Department at University of Iowa Health Care offers several training pathways, including the ABR Dual Certification in Pediatric Radiology and a five-year integrated interventional/diagnostic radiology ACGME-accredited program. 

Our nationally-ranked faculty are committed to the growth and success of our residents.  

Led by a team of faculty dedicated to residents’ success, the programs offer superior training, access to state-of-the-art equipment,  and opportunities for research.  Graduates of the program go on to serve distinguished careers in both academic and private settings.

Welcome from the Program Director

Theodore Donta, portrait
Theodore Donta, MD, PhD, Program Director

Welcome to The University of Iowa Radiology Residency Program!

This is an exciting time to join our department. With a strong tradition of teaching excellence and access to the most advanced imaging technologies available, our program offers a dynamic and supportive environment for learning and growth. Our residents are recognized nationally for their outstanding training and consistently match into top fellowships and career opportunities across the country.

As one of the largest teaching hospitals in the U.S., The University of Iowa provides a rich clinical environment. Our Radiology department collaborates closely with colleagues in medicine and surgery, all united by a shared commitment to exceptional patient care.

Our culture is collegial and inclusive. Reading rooms are open and interactive, staffed daily by faculty, fellows, and residents at all levels. Faculty provide one-on-one case reviews, lead engaging case conferences, and foster a collaborative learning atmosphere; and, we all share interesting cases. Daily noon conferences offer structured didactic teaching and preparation for board exams.

As a side note, we recently welcomed our new interns and PGY2 residents—enthusiasm and energy fill our halls.

I invite you to explore our website to learn more about our department’s legacy, our commitment to education and patient care, and the many opportunities available to our residents in research, teaching, and leadership.

About Us

Our department has a proud legacy of excellence in teaching and patient care. With decades of contributions to medical education and clinical innovation, we continue to shape the future of radiology. Learn more about our history on the department website.

Technology & Innovation

Strategic Partnership with Siemens Healthineers:

  • In 2020, the University of Iowa Health Care entered a Value Partnership with Siemens Healthineers. This collaboration enhances access to cutting-edge imaging technologies, artificial intelligence tools, and data analytics. The partnership also supports workforce development and research initiatives across the enterprise to expand research opportunities and training for staff and students.

Advanced Imaging Equipment:

  • Residents train on state-of-the-art systems including dual-energy and photon-counting CT scanners, 3.0T and 1.5T MRI units, high-resolution ultrasound, and fluoroscopy suites. These tools support both diagnostic and interventional procedures.

PET/MRI Installation:

  • A new PET/MRI system—one of only four in the U.S.—is being installed to advance hybrid imaging. The technology enables simultaneous metabolic and anatomical imaging, improving diagnostic precision.

Research Imaging Division:

Theranostics Leadership:

  • Our Nuclear Medicine department is a national leader in theranostics—a fusion of therapy and diagnostics where radioisotopes are used to both image and treat a patient’s disease. We are conducting phase one clinical trials using targeted radiation, chemotherapy, and gene therapy to treat various cancers.

Artificial Intelligence Curriculum:

  • Residents engage in a structured AI curriculum featuring HawkAI Basic and Advanced Certification Courses, a lecture series covering machine learning, ethics, and clinical integration, and an optional dedicated academic month focused on AI applications in radiology.

Informatics Training:

  • Residents have opportunities to gain hands-on experience in radiology informatics, including PACS management, workflow optimization, and data-driven decision-making.

Residency Tracks after the Combined Internship year

  • Diagnostic Radiology (DR): A comprehensive 5-year program covering all subspecialties of radiology.
  • Integrated DR/IR Track: Combines diagnostic and interventional radiology training, preparing residents for dual certification.
  • ABR Dual Certification in Pediatric Radiology: A unique pathway for residents interested in pediatric imaging, combining general and subspecialty training.
  • Nuclear Medicine (NM): Offers specialized training in molecular imaging and theranostics

Sample Resident Schedules

  • PGY-1 (Intern Year): Rotations in internal medicine and surgery, with early radiology exposure and a research month to build academic foundations.
  • PGY-2 (R1 Year): Core subspecialty rotations such as chest, abdominal, neuro, and musculoskeletal imaging. No after-hours call allows focused learning.
  • PGY-3 (R2 Year): Advanced imaging techniques, including cardiac MRI and PET/CT. Residents receive protected time for research and board study.
  • PGY-4 (R3 Year): Elective rotations in areas like breast imaging, pediatric radiology, and interventional procedures. Emphasis on board preparation.
  • PGY-5 (R4 Year): Mini-fellowships tailored to career goals—options are available in all subspecialties within the department.

Academic & Professional Development

  • Research Opportunities: Residents participate in funded research projects, present at national conferences, and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Conference Support: Financial assistance is available for travel and registration to major radiology meetings such as RSNA and ARRS.
  • Educational Leadership: Opportunities to teach medical students and junior residents, develop curriculum, and lead journal clubs.
  • Leadership Training: Participate in departmental committees, quality improvement projects, and mentorship programs.
  • Informatics & Innovation: Collaborate on projects involving AI, workflow optimization, and data analytics.
  • Community Medicine: Engage in outreach programs and rural health initiatives to improve access to imaging services.

Moonlighting

  • Contrast Injections: Residents may supervise and assist with contrast administration during clinical rotations.
  • Teleradiology: Eligible post-board certification and licensure, offering flexibility and supplemental income.

Our People

Visit Our People page to view our leaders, current residents, and department faculty.

Life in Iowa City

  • Vibrant College Town: Enjoy the energy of a Big Ten university with cultural events, sports, and academic resources.
  • Outdoor Recreation: Access to parks, trails, and rivers for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
  • Affordable Living: Low cost of living with high quality of life—ideal for families and young professionals.
  • Check out https://uiowa.edu/student-life/iowa-city

How to Apply

We accept 8 Diagnostic Radiology residents annually. Candidates match into a combined Internship year followed by four years of Diagnostic Radiology Residency (R1–R5). Our program is ACGME-approved for 40 total residents. Application details include:

  • NRMP Match number: 4201821068
  • ERAS number: 1203140C0
  • ERAS deadlines:
    • Sept. 3, 2025 - Residency applicants may begin submitting MyERAS® applications to programs at 9 a.m. ET.
    • Sept. 24, 2025 - Residency programs may begin reviewing MyERAS applications and MSPEs in the PDWS at 9 a.m. ET. 
  • Interview dates: 

    1Wed15-Oct
    2Tues21-Oct
    3Thurs23-Oct
    4Mon27-Oct
    5Wed5-Nov
    6Fri7-Nov
    7Mon10-Nov
    8Thurs13-Nov
    9Tues18-Nov
    10Mon8-Dec
    11Thurs11-Dec
    12Tues16-Dec
  • In-person tour opportunities: TBD