Special Programs

The applications for special programs at the Association of Academic Radiology (AAR) 74th Annual Meeting, March 17-20, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia will open late summer/early fall 2026.  

Interested in applying? Please review the following information to be prepared for the 2026 application process:

  • Space is limited. Only one candidate per institution may apply for each program. We encourage you to discuss your interest with your chair and secure their support before submitting your application.
  • Participants must be members of the AAR and must register for the entire AAR meeting.

Opportunity for Trainees

AAR-ACR Research Scholar Program

The program seeks to bring together residents and fellows who have background and interest in scientific, health services and health policy research with seasoned academic radiologists. The full day program offers health policy research curriculum, scholar presentations and focused mentoring sessions.

  • Applicants will be required to prepare an abstract for a current research project for which they are the lead investigator and first author.
  • A $1,000 stipend will be paid to each participating department to offset travel expenses.

AAR Radiology Resident Academic Leadership Development (ARRALD)

Provides focused mentorship, leadership, and academic development activities to better prepare PGY3 residents for their transition into successful careers as leaders in academic radiology.

  • Open to second year (PGY3) diagnostic residents with potential as a future leader.
  • As a $1,200 stipend will be paid to each participating department to offset travel expenses.

AAR Clinical Education Track

Starting in 2026 – the AAR will be trialing a new education track for residents.

The Association of Academic Radiology Clinical Educator Track (CET) aims to inspire and prepare junior radiology residents for academic careers by providing a comprehensive two-year curriculum. This program includes special programing at the annual AAR conference, mentorship from experienced educators, and a mentorship in a scholarly project. The curriculum covers essential teaching methodologies, innovative teaching methods, and the development of impactful presentations. Residents will be paired with mentors and are required to complete an educational project by the end of the 2-year program. The CET is designed to provide formal education opportunities for aspiring radiology educators and to ensure a robust future for academic radiology.

  • Open only to first year (PGY-2) diagnostic and interventional radiology residents. Only one resident per department can be nominated.
  • A total of 10 awards will be given.
  • A $1,000 stipend will be awarded to each participating department to offset travel expenses.  Additional funding should be requested by the individual departments.

Opportunity for Faculty/Administrators

Faculty Development Program

Brings together promising junior radiology physician faculty members for a one-day program of education and networking. 

  • Open to junior radiology physician faculty members who are within the first five years of their faculty appointment. 

Radiology Management Program

Focuses on management and leadership training and is based primarily on the case-study method in combination with keynote talks. 

  • Open to mid-career and senior radiologists (more than five years into their faculty appointments) and administrators.