Residents & Students

Learn about the abundance of resources and educational programs tailored specifically for each young neurosurgeon’s development, whether in medical school, residency, fellowship or beyond.

Blue and purple digitized of neurons and synapses

Grants and Fellowships

Stay up to date with opportunities for members to access funding and support for research, education, and career development in the field of neurosurgery.

Applications due soon! Donald O. Quest Awards

For Residents, Fellows and Medical Students

Named in honor of former AANS President Donald O. Quest, MD, FAANS, for his commitment to mentoring young neurosurgeons, this award is available to residents, fellows and medical students.

During the Young Neurosurgeon Research Forum, hosted each year during the AANS Annual Scientific Meeting, a panel of neurosurgeons evaluate abstract presentations based on content and presentation style.

At the conclusion of the forum, Donald O. Quest Awards with prizes of $500 are presented in the following categories:

  • Best basic science abstract from a resident or fellow.
  • Best basic science abstract from a medical student
  • Best clinical abstract from a resident or fellow.
  • Best clinical abstract from a medical student

NREF Research Grants for Residents

For Residents

Open to residents only, NREF Research Grants (one year and up to $40,000) provide training for neurosurgeons who are preparing for academic careers as clinician investigators.

William P. Van Wagenen Fellowship for Senior Residents

For Senior Residents

The fellowship provides up to $120,000 for travel to a foreign country to a senior resident intending to pursue an academic career in neurosurgery.

Residents, Get Involved

By getting involved, residents can expand their professional network, access educational resources, stay updated on the latest research, and shape the future of neurosurgery.

Resources & Tools

Enhance Your Skills Resources for Resident

Residents can actively participate in the neurosurgical community, gain valuable knowledge and experience, and contribute to the advancement of the field.

A woman doctor resident smiling while the other 2 doctors are talking in the background

Get Access to all Resident & Student Resources

Not A Member Yet?

Become a member of the AANS and join more than 12,000 of your colleagues from around the world in advancing the specialty of neurological surgery. The community of AANS members enjoys access to scientific publications, patient education materials, discounted meeting attendance and many more member benefits.