Current Residents
2025-2026 Residents
| PGY-1 | PGY-2 | PGY-3 | PGY-4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annabel Clodius | Vincent Czerwinski | Saketh Annam | Amerta Bai |
| Emma Ende | Charles Giuliani | Zach Dent | Karly Brodersen |
| Rodolfo Nussbaum Gonzalez | Christina Looby | Ryan Fuglestad | Andrew Carlson |
| Marson Putra | Jinci Lu | Andrew Metz | Abhigyan Datta |
| Michaela Tonsager | Pranav Mirpuri | Amy Parkinson | Benjamin Ransom |
| Elizabeth Troy | Jordynn Palmer | Sophia Yang | Stephen Ward |
Meet Our Residents
Class of 2026
Amerta Bai, MBBS
Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
Medical School: Jinnah Sindh Medical University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I really found U of M to be a wholesome platform in all the domain be it clinical, research, academia, or being an enriching environment to train as a budding neurologist. I absolutely loved the idea of Friday school and boot camp to help residents transition to the second year and feel like the part of the Neurology team from the day one. Lastly, the senior residents gave a great vibe of a supportive and fun comradery.
What are your plans after residency: I am definitely leaning towards fellowship. But I am looking forward to exploring all the possible interests to finalize the one to pursue.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: I am yet to experience in-person all the fun that Minnesota has to offer specially the out-door activities.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love to write poetry mostly in Urdu language. I have recently made a youtube channel that’s yet to be flourished.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: A scientist or a therapist.
Karly Brodersen, MD
Hometown: DeSmet, SD
Medical School: University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: Great exposure to numerous subspecialties and interventional fellowship.
What do you enjoy most about the program:Eexposure to diverse patient population.
What are your plans after residency: Fellowship in vascular & interventiona.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Shopping.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I was a competitive gymnast for 12 year.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Fashion designer or stylist
Andrew Carlson, MD
Hometown: Onalaska, Wisconsin
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: The department seems to demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality neurologic care to the people of Minnesota. I also deeply love Minneapolis, and am excited to have the opportunity to live in this culturally rich and interesting city.
What do you enjoy most about the program: This program demonstrates its commitment to education through the Friday School curriculum. I also love my the other residents in my cohort!
What are your plans after residency: I plan to pursue a fellowship, but I'm not sure of the subspecialty yet! I have interests in movement disorders and neuro-palliative care, but love all areas of neurology at this point.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Hiking along the north shore of Lake Superior
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I studied geology in Italy for a semester during college.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: The proprietor of a small independent coffee shop.
Abhigyan Datta, MBBS
Hometown: Assam, India
Medical School: Maulana Azad Medical College, University of Delhi
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: From a strictly program perspective, there were quite a few things that stood out compared to other places I interviewed at- extensive exposure to neurology right from PGY1 (4 blocks of neurology+ weekly continuity clinic), protected didactic time during Friday school, wide variety of subspecialty exposure (including fields such as pain and interventional neurology- our program houses one of the few ACGME accredited ESN fellowships around), having the AAN headquarters right across, and an educator track to name a few. However, it was my experiences on interview day that made me realize that I would absolutely love to be a part of this family- everyone was incredibly friendly, and I had a blast with the resident during the meet and greet.
What do you enjoy most about the program: Friday School for sure! All the residents get to meet every friday (and it's protected- attendings hold the pagers), and we have a ton of incredibly fun team-based activities- Quizbowl (a Jeopardy style event), Neuro-games, simulations, etc.
What are your plans after residency: Fellowship, but not sure of the subspecialty.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Walking along the chain of lakes.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I have played 400 hours of Skyrim on 4 different systems (PC, PS3, PS4, Switch)- and still have not finished the main quest yet.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Artificial intelligence safety researcher- and working on the AI alignment/control problem. In fact, I still hope to work on this at some point in the distant future, either directly or perhaps through computational neuroscience.
Ben Ransom, MD
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I wanted to continue my training in the beautiful city I call home, with an institution I have come to admire and respect during my time first as a researcher (analytical chemist at the Masonic Cancer Center for ~6 yrs), then a graduate student (Masters in Biological Science), a medical student, and finally a resident physician.
What do you enjoy most about the program: The people!
What are your plans after residency: Will likely do a fellowship. Considering epileptology, sleep medicine, maybe vascular neurology -- so I'm pretty undifferentiated right now, but am excited to see where the next 4 years take me...
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Kayaking? Biking? Skiing? Hard to pick just one, but it will probably be outside.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I lived on a glacier for a month. Ask me about it...
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Pilot. For sure.
S. Jackson Ward, DO
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: During medical school, I rotated with a neurologist who completed her residency training at the University of Minnesota several years ago. She was a great mentor and my positive experience rotating with her inspired me to look into the program for myself. The beauty of the state, consistent positive interactions with native Minnesotans, focus on family life, quality education, and friendly staff and faculty all influenced me to rank the University of Minnesota as my number one choice when submitting my residency rank list.
What do you enjoy most about the program: So far, I enjoy the friendly nature of my fellow residents and other staff members.
What are your plans after residency: Currently, I am interested in pursuing a fellowship in Movement Disorders.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Walking my Golden Retriever around Minnesota's many lakes and rivers.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I play electric guitar.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: An audio engineer or music producer.
Class of 2027
Zach Dent, MD
Hometown: Barnesville, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? Since moving here for medical school, my wife, Courtney, and I have really come to love the Twin Cities. At the University of Minnesota I have met lifelong friends and mentors, and I know there is success in my future if I am shown the same grace and support as I have received here as a medical student. I could not be more excited to get started and to continue serving this community!
What are your plans after residency? Unsure! Likely fellowship training of some sort.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? I really enjoy biking, a refreshing drink at a local brewery, and observing the night sky with my telescope.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I only have one functioning Abducens Nerve.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a pharmacist, physicist, or astronomer.
Ryan Fuglestad, MD
Hometown: Green Bay, WI
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I felt an immediate connection with staff and residents during my interview and really just felt like I fit in. The integration into the Neurology Department beginning in the intern year is a fantastic start to our training and I will have exposure to a wide variety of subspecialties to help me choose which fellowship I want to pursue.
What do you enjoy most about the program? Friday School is a fun way to continue our education while also providing a chance to catch up with co-residents.
What are your plans after residency? I plan on completing a fellowship, but am not sure which one at this point in my training. Early favorites are neuromuscular and pain.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? I enjoy the variety of professional sports in the Twin Cities.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I'm a huge Green Bay Packer fan.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a pilot
Andrew Metz, MD
Hometown: New Brighton, MN
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? There are many reasons why I chose the U of M neurology program! During my visiting sub-internship rotation, I was impressed by the strong sense of community among faculty and residents. Everyone was so welcoming, and I really enjoyed my time on rotation. I was also drawn to the wide variety of training opportunities at the program across the various sub-specialties within neurology. Finally, I'm excited to return to my home state to be surrounded by friends and family.
What do you enjoy most about the program? So far, I've enjoyed the sense of community within the program, and I'm excited to meet more of my future co-residents and faculty members.
What are your plans after residency? I will likely pursue a fellowship in an inpatient-related specialty like stroke or neuro-critical care, but I am keeping an open mind as I start residency!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? I love getting outdoors and staying active. I enjoy golfing and hiking in the summer months and skiing in the winter!
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I've read the Harry Potter books more times than I can count (most recently last summer).
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a sports reporter! I am a big Minnesota sports fan, and my friends will tell you I'm always talking about players and statistics while watching a game (maybe too much!).
Amy Parkinson, MD
Hometown: Waconia, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? While in medical school at UMN, I thoroughly enjoyed working with the neurology residents and attendings. It is clear to me that everyone involved in the program is invested in teaching, learning from each other, and working together to serve patients to the best of their ability. The program has been shaped with intentionality to help residents become excellent neurologists. I love the integration of neurology in the first year, through continuity clinic and Friday school, and the opportunity to participate in the education track. Finally, I love Minnesota! It is an amazing place to live and I am so thankful for the ways others have invested in me throughout my time in Minnesota.
What do you enjoy most about the program? The people!
What are your plans after residency? Most likely fellowship - I love working with and supporting individuals living with dementia so I could see myself pursuing a Behavioral Neurology fellowship but I am open to that changing!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Kayaking in the summer, looking at and collecting beautiful leaves in the fall, and cross country skiing in the winter!
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love to write handwritten notes for my friends and family.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... an event coordinator.
Sophia Yang, MD
Hometown: San Diego, California
Medical School: Chicago Medical School
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? U of M's clinical training is unmatched, offering diverse experiences across multiple sites. There are also ample academic and research opportunities that allow residents to customize their training to their career interests. Additionally, the program's supportive culture, including weekly protected didactics for all residents, creates an environment that encourages learning and team-building. Not to mention, Minneapolis is a beautiful and vibrant city with close proximity to many outdoor activities!
What do you enjoy most about the program? The supportive culture and friendly people! Also, the exceptional breadth and depth of neurology training here, including wide exposure to subspecialties like neuroendovascular intervention.
What are your plans after residency? Most likely fellowship, undecided - headache medicine, neuroimmunology, behavioral neurology.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Dinner at Bar La Grassa
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: In medical school, I became obsessed with houseplants, especially aroids, and acquired a massive collection. I enjoy propagating them and sharing cuttings with family and friends.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a piano teacher or therapist.
Saketh Annam, MBBS
Hometown: Hyderabad, India
Medical School: Osmania Medical College, India
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Minnesota winters, snowfall, walking through the campus, exploring lakes and beautiful trails
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Architect or Real Estate Investor or a Businessman
Class of 2028
Charles Giuliani, DO
Hometown: Eden Prairie, MN
Medical School: Des Moines University (DMU)
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? Born and raised in MN, happy to be home! Awesome program!
What do you enjoy most about the program? The people; from the current residents to the faculty, everyone is great.
What are your plans after residency? Fellowship, and then be a practicing Neurologist in MN
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Boating on the Lakes
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I got 2nd in state in Chess as a 4th grader.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... Probably a business professional of some sort.....
Christina Looby, DO
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Medical School: Rocky Vista University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I loved absolutely everyone I interviewed with and that I've spoken to about the program. They all had such good things to say about U of M. It made me really excited to be a part of such a great community.
What do you enjoy most about the program? I don't know quite yet, but I'm excited to get started soon! I suppose so far I enjoy getting to know everyone.
What are your plans after residency? I'd like to pursue a fellowship, although I'm not quite sure in what yet. I have a lot of interest in many things still!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? I haven't been in the area for long, but so far it's been walks along the riverfront.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: Eating dark chocolate too fast makes me sneeze.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a geologist!
Jinci Lu, MD
Hometown: Saint Paul, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I chose the UMN because I grew up in MN and this is the patient population/community that I want to continue serving. In addition, being around the department as a medical student, I have always felt a sense of family amongst the residents and faculty, so I believe being a part of this community during residency will help me thrive as a physician resident.
What do you enjoy most about the program? I think there is a strong sense of community within the program, and I have received strong mentorship from faculty and residents in this program.
What are your plans after residency? Currently, I have a strong interest in pursuing a fellowship in stroke neurology and neuro-interventional radiology after residency. However, I intend to explore other subspecialities within neurology during residency.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Trying out new restaurants in the Twin Cities
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: One of the coolest/random thing about me is that I started learning hip-hop dance during my 3rd year of medical school.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a school counselor
Jordynn Palmer, DO
Hometown: Bloomington, IL
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I wanted to join a program that had dedicated teachers as faculty and was progressive in thinking and caring for patients. Minnesota is just that! I also am interested in Academic Medicine and was drawn to the program's Educator Track.
What are your plans after residency? I am considering a fellowship in either neuroimmunology or cognitive neurology. I'd like to keep my mind open to others as well though.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Anything involving the lakes at summertime
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I've performed at a music festival before
If you weren't a physician, you would be... A musician
Pranav Mirpuri, MD
Medical School: Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science
Vincent Czerwinski, MD
Medical School: University of Kansas
Class of 2029
Annabel Clodius, MD
Hometown: Rockford, Illinois
Medical School: Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I had a wonderful interview day and so many aspects about the program spoke to me and my values. It was the program I was most excited about!
What do you enjoy most about the program? So far, the people. Everyone seems to truly have the best heart and genuinely wants to help everyone along in their training journey. The camaraderie is remarkable.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Exploring nature around the area.
Coolest/most random thing about you? I can wiggle my ears and have found hundreds of 4-leaf clovers.
Emma Ende, MD
Hometown: Dayton, MN
Medical School: University of North Dakota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? The UMN Neurology Program has ample opportunity for subspecialty exposure, supported by and distinguished faculty and established residency curriculum. All of these things, in the Twin Cities community that I know and love, made it the perfect fit for me!
What do you enjoy most about the program? Unlimited opportunities for my future career in Neurology!
What are your plans after residency? I hope to pursue a fellowship - my current interests include movement, neuro-ophthalmology and epilepsy! I am excited to explore my options further in the next 4 years!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Berry picking! A warm summer day hunting for wild berries up north or visiting one of the fruit farms close to home is my favorite way to spend the day.
Coolest/most random thing about you? I sold the most Girl Scout cookies in the state of Minnesota in 2nd grade.
Rodolfo Nussbaum Gonazalez, MD
Hometown: San Felipe, Venezuela
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? UMN offers what I was looking for in a neurology program: an exceptional education with comprehensive exposure to neurology and its various subspecialties, with a lot options for electives. My decision to choose UMN was solidified during the second-look event, where I had the opportunity to meet both the residents and staff. I witnessed how the program fosters a positive learning environment and realized I wanted to be a part of it. Additionally, my wife and I have family in the Twin Cities, which made the prospect of moving to this area even more appealing. Having family in the area combined with such a strong neurology program made UMN the perfect fit for me and my family.
Coolest/most random thing about you? Medicine is a career change for me. A long time ago, I worked as a music producer and had a recording studio in Madrid, Spain.
Marson Putra, MD
Hometown: Makassar, Indonesia
Medical School: Hasanuddin University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? Everyone I met during the interview was so friendly, supportive, and genuinely kind—it immediately felt like the right place for me. The way the program values research, mentorship, and career growth truly resonated with my aspirations. I’m so thankful and excited to join such a wonderful community.
What do you enjoy most about the program? Definitely the people! They are amazing!
What are your plans after residency? I’m thinking about doing a fellowship in Epilepsy or Clinical Neurophysiology, and down the line, I plan to have my own neuroscience research lab where I can combine research, mentoring, and practicing neurology.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Although I haven’t lived in Minnesota for long, I really enjoyed running and walking around the lakes, as well as driving through the Twin Cities during my last visit.
Coolest/most random thing about you? I had no idea I could sketch portraits until I started dating my wife—and now it’s something I’ve really enjoyed doing in my free time for the past 9 years.
Michaela Tonsager, DO
Hometown: Farmington, MN
Medical School: Kansas City University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I was born and raised in MN so I'm happy to be back home! Additionally, I chose the U of M Neurology Residency Program for its exceptional clinical training across multiple diverse sites, strong academic foundation, and flexibility to tailor my experience through research and subspecialty opportunities.
What do you enjoy most about the program? The people are very kind, and there seems to be a strong sense of camaraderie among residents and faculty.
What are your plans after residency? I will probably do a fellowship. Currently, I'm still exploring the many opportunities within neurology.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Boating on the lake in the summer, camping and hiking in the fall, and skiing or skating once winter hits!
Coolest/most random thing about you? I’m working my way through visiting every Minnesota State Park—I've made it to about half so far! It’s been a fun way to explore the state and spend time outdoors.
Elizabeth Troy, MD
Hometown: Woodridge, IL
Medical School: University of Illinois
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I decided to come to UofM for neurology residency because its a great program in a great city with great people. The program has a broad array of experiences and subspecialty exposure within neurology while also having a lot of opportunities to go more in-depth by getting involved in activities like research. I'm also excited by the opportunity to work with medical students and become a better teacher through a neurology educator tract.
What do you enjoy most about the program? I think it will be the people. I really enjoyed meeting people during interview day. Everyone was very warm and interesting to talk to. I'm really excited to work with and get to know my co-residents better.
What are your plans after residency? I will probably do a fellowship. Currently, I'm still exploring the many opportunities within neurology.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Getting a coffee and walking by the river.
Coolest/most random thing about you? I was a synchronized figure skater from 5-17 years old.
Positions After Graduation
- 2025 Placements
- 2024 Placements
- 2023 Placements
- 2022 Placements
- 2021 Placements
- 2020 Placements
- 2019 Placements
- 2018 Placements
- 2017 Placements
- Michael Figueroa - Epilepsy Fellowship, UMN
- Ernest Hanes - General Neurology practice
- Omair ul haq Lodhi - Vascular Neurology Fellowship, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
- Monica Ngo - Headache Fellowship, MedStar Georgetown
- Abhiram Parameswaran Pillai - Vascular Neurology Fellowship, UMN
- John Ziegler - Multiple Sclerosis Fellowship, UMN
Meaghan Berns - University of Minnesota, Movement Disorders Fellowship
Jeffrey Bowers - University of California San Diego, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Salman Ikramuddin - University of Texas Health Sciences Houston/StrokeNet, Vascular Fellowship
Madisen Janssen - Cleveland Clinic, Headache Fellowship
Robert Lowe - University of Minnesota, Movement Disorders Fellowship
Rebecca Roberts - Vascular Neurology, University of South Florida; Endovascular Surgical Neuroradiology, Texas Stroke Institute
Joshua Vandeburgh - University of Michigan Ann Arbor, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Nikita Khetarpal - University of Tennessee, Palliative Fellowship
Nicholas Purcell - University of Minnesota, Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship
Apameh Salari - Epilepsy Fellowship
Grace Tobin - John Hopkins
Mai Kau Yang - University of Miami, Neurocritical Care Fellowship
Heba Afeefy - Private Practice, Subspecialty Epilepsy, St. Cloud, MN
Emily Hudson - University of Minnesota, Multiple Sclerosis Fellowship
Kaci McCleary - Ohio Health, Palliative Care Fellowship
Lisa Moore - University of Minnesota, Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Bindi Parikh - University of Maryland, Neurocritical Care Fellowship
Hope Ukatu - University of Washington, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Mona Al Banna - Yale, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Malik Ghannam - Iowa, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Adam Lipschultz - University of Minnesota, Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Kent Nichols - University of Minnesota, Research Fellowship
Stephanie Reeder - University of Minnesota, Epilepsy Fellowship
Aubree Bruhnding - University of Minnesota, Faculty
Tanner Ferderer - Ohio State, Headache Fellowship
Michael Hayes - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Allison Ho - University of Minnesota, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Nathan McGraw - University of Kansas, Fellowship
John Riedinger - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Rami Assadi - Washington University - St. Louis, Stroke Fellowship
Matthew Britton - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Roshni Patel - Rush College of Medicine - Chicago, Movement Fellowship
Edward Labin - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Matthew Ronck - University of Minnesota, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Leighton Mohl - University of Minnesota, NCC Fellowship
AJ Christnovich - University of Minnesota, Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Parth Dhruv - University New Mexico, Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Erika Horta - Detroit, MI, Neurooncology Fellowship
Jessica Jarnot - University of Minnesota, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Jetter Robertson - University of Minnesota, Neurology Faculty
Kyle Smith - Missoula, MT, private practice
Anisha Bhangav - Washington University in St Louis, Neuromuscular Fellowship
Abby Metzler - Mayo Clinic, Headache Fellowship
Asma Moussaoui - Rush University, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
David Ortiz - University of Minnesota, Epilepsy Fellowship
Pratit Patel - University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Amber Stutz - University of Minnesota, Movement Disorders Fellowship
