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Indiana University School of Medicine
Indiana University School of Medicine
Surgery
Al Hassanein, MD, and female surgeon in the operating room for a Microsurgery case.

Microsurgery Fellowship

The Microsurgery Fellowship at Indiana University School of Medicine Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery offers an immersive, high-volume experience in microsurgical reconstruction. The one-year program is designed to prepare fellows for independent practice. Fellows gain hands-on experience across several Indianapolis institutions, including IU Health North, Methodist Hospital, University Hospital and Riley Hospital for Children.

Application Timeline

IU School of Medicine invites applications for a reconstructive microsurgery fellow/clinical instructor position, running from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.

Program Overview

Fellows in this program gain unparalleled hands-on experience and access to leading experts, preparing them for advanced careers in reconstructive and microsurgery.

  • Extensive clinical training across breast reconstruction, pediatric microsurgery, head and neck, extremities, advanced nerve surgery, lymphatic super microsurgery and gender-affirming procedures.

  • Cutting-edge resources and support, including state-of-the-art microsurgery equipment, advanced practice providers and dedicated staff to enhance learning and patient care.

  • Global health opportunities through the AMPATH program in Eldoret, Kenya, offering fellows international surgical experience and perspective.

  • Collaborative case work with head and neck surgery colleagues on complex microvascular oropharyngeal reconstruction.

  • Unique specialized experiences in pediatric facial reanimation and peripheral nerve procedures for chronic pain, in partnership with otolaryngology teams.

Mary Lester, MD, APD of Microsurgery and trainee Abbas Hassan, MD, PhD, working in OR for a microsurgery case.

Curriculum

The Fundamentals of Microsurgery curriculum offers a structured, skills-based approach to microsurgical anastomosis through guided, hands-on practice outside the operating room.

View the curriculum

Microsurgery Training Videos

Visit our online training videos to learn more about the Fundamentals of Microsurgery curiculum. 

Rachel Danforth, MD, PD of Microsurgery and male trainee during a clinical microsurgery case.

Clinical Experience

The microsurgery fellowship includes a clinical instructor role, giving fellows the opportunity to run independent clinics and perform non-microsurgical reconstruction and general plastic surgery procedures. Fellows gain valuable experience as junior faculty, broadening their skill set while working closely with experts in the field.

Application Process

Interested applicants should apply directly through our program coordinator:

  • Application window: Starting July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027
  • Eligibility requirements:
    • Completion of a plastic surgery residency
    • Board eligible with the American Board of Plastic Surgery
  • Candidate profile: Strong academic and clinical credentials with a demonstrated interest in education
  • Opportunities for fellows: Active participation in IU’s high-volume microsurgical program, with support for clinical research and resident teaching

To apply or request information, please contact:

Rhonda Gerding, Education Program Coordinator
Email: rgerding@iu.edu
Phone: 317-278-0394
Address: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 545 Barnhill Drive, Suite 232, Indianapolis, IN 46202

2026-2027 Microsurgery Fellow

Faculty Profile Placeholder IUSM Logo Rhiannon Bradshaw, MD

Rhiannon Bradshaw, MD

PGY 8
Eastern Virginia Medical School

Meet Our Program Directors

16718-Danforth, Rachel Rachel M. Danforth, MD

Rachel M. Danforth, MD

Assistant Professor of Clinical Surgery

20855-Lester, Mary Mary E. Lester, MD

Mary E. Lester, MD

Associate Professor of Clinical Surgery