Ayman Youssef, MD (2024-2025)
After completing my medical education in Egypt, I decided to specialize in hematology-oncology and cellular therapy. The progress in cellular therapeutics, which target not only malignancies but also a wide range of illnesses, has been hindered by various inflammatory reactions. This challenge led me to pursue further training at Duke University, focusing on managing inflammatory complications in bone marrow transplant recipients. Following this training, I engaged in basic and translational research to explore the potential of the autonomic nervous system in providing innovative therapeutic solutions. This work exemplifies the intricate functioning of our body-brain axis through autonomic neural pathways.
Participating in the clinical fellowship at Vanderbilt’s Autonomic Dysfunction Center (ADC) is a pivotal step in my career. This opportunity allows me to learn the clinical science of autonomic homeostasis from top-tier clinicians, covering both basic and advanced concepts. The training is comprehensive and rigorous, exposing me to a wide range of clinical scenarios related to autonomic dysfunction. What stands out about Vanderbilt ADC is the diverse backgrounds of its physicians and scientists, which brings a variety of perspectives to the field. Each day, whether in inpatient, outpatient, or consult settings, is full of new clinical experiences and discussions with mentors and colleagues. Group meetings on the other hand provide a platform for engaging in challenging case discussions and exploring different approaches. The fellowship also includes dedicated one-on-one mentorship time, enabling me to discuss research ideas and engage in ongoing clinical research. I believe the ADC fellowship offers an ideal blend of extensive clinical exposure and mentorship for those pursuing a career in autonomics.