This course is open to MSIV students at the University of South Florida who are interested in exploring research in neuroscience. It can be tailored to meet each student's individual interests and needs. Students will choose a specific research topic, either independently or in collaboration with ongoing projects in the Neurosurgery and Brain Repair Department. They will work with a faculty member who specializes in their area of interest. Throughout the course, students will be exposed to a variety of techniques commonly used in neuroscience research, including anatomical, behavioral, histological, imaging, and physiological assessments. The laboratories emphasize research in areas such as neural tissue transplantation, molecular biology, angiogenesis in brain tumors, and spinal biomechanics.

This will be a clinical experience in which the student will work under the supervision of the Residents and Fellows in Neurological Surgery, and the attending neurosurgeons at the College of Medicine. It will be based at Tampa General Hospital, as well as the USF Health Ambulatory Clinics located on the 3rd floor of STC. There will be a concentrated experience in the diagnosis and management of neurosurgical illness and active participation in the radiological, clinical, and teaching rounds.

This course will give fourth year medical students an opportunity to gain experience in both inpatient and outpatient neurosurgical care and procedures, working closely with attendings and residents at both TGH and USF Health-STC clinics. Students will have the opportunity to: 

• Involved in the care of patients with Cerebrovascular Disorders, Brain Tumors, Pediatric Neurosurgical needs, Spine and Peripheral Nerve disorders, and in Neuro Critical Care/ICU/Trauma. 
• Participate in neurosurgical Stereotactic and Functional procedures and minor procedures (e.g., LP, LD, EVD, arterial line). 
• Assist in the operating room by opening and closing cases and observing key portions of surgeries.
• Participating in clinical and educational conferences. 

Visiting Students interested in completing an externship in Neurological Surgery should refer to the USF Health Morsani VSLO application

During this two-week rotation, students will work closely under the direct supervision of both attending and resident physicians. Participants will have the opportunity to attend conferences, engage in didactic lectures, and explore various teaching platforms to enhance their understanding of neurosurgical principles and practices. The different subspecialties are incorporated into a general service at Tampa General Hospital, which serves as the primary site for this rotation. The elective will take place at both hospital and clinic facilities.