The UAB Department of Otolaryngology welcomed Stefania Goncalves, M.D., to the faculty as an assistant professor in October 2024.

Goncalves’ undergraduate and graduate studies were completed at the Universidad Central de Venezuela where she also completed medical school in 2010. After several years of ear-related research, Goncalves matched into residency at the Venezuelan Foundation of Otology and volunteered at the Laboratory for Translational Auditory Research. Thereafter, Goncalves moved to Miami for an observership and ended up becoming a research fellow. She then completed general otolaryngology head and neck surgical training at the Jackson Memorial Hospital program affiliated with the University of Miami and completed training in Otology and Neurotology at the same institution in June 2024.

Goncalves shares what she is most excited about in this new role.

What is your primary area of expertise within your field?

Goncalves: My primary area of expertise is the field of otology and neurotology. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?

Goncalves: My passion for the field comes from experiencing how impactful the neurotology field can be to someone's life and the great balance between clinical knowledge and surgical skills needed to provide high-quality care.

What aspects of your new role here are you most excited about?

Goncalves: Expanding access to otology and neurotology to the community, residency education, and the research opportunities available at UAB.

What are your goals for making an impact through both your teaching and patient care in this role?

Goncalves: My primary goal is to provide more access to subspecialized care to the northern southeast, which will translate into better quality of care to patients with Otology and Neurotology needs. I also intend to teach my patients regarding their medical conditions so they have better understanding and can manage their pathologies better. Additionally, I hope to share my passion for the field with the otolaryngology residents in training of the UAB program through individualized teaching sessions in addition to group activities such as journal clubs, ear trivia sessions, pre in training exam reviews, and all other sources available to improve the knowledge in the field.