Residency Program

Welcome to the Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residency at USC/LA General Medical Center, where residents develop expertise, confidence, and compassion in a dynamic training environment. Our program is committed to training highly skilled surgeons prepared for dynamic career paths, fostering independent thinkers who excel in interdisciplinary healthcare, and equipping residents with research capabilities. We emphasize patient safety, quality care, cultural sensitivity, and leadership development while maintaining a supportive work-life balance for both residents and faculty.

The USC Caruso Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery provides residents with comprehensive education and hands-on experience in diagnosing and managing diseases and disorders of the ears, upper respiratory, and alimentary systems, as well as other head and neck structures. Through a progressive curriculum that aligns with each level of training, residents develop the clinical and surgical skills necessary to care for complex patients. With a focus on early surgical exposure, structured mentorship, and broad clinical settings, the program ensures that residents gain confidence and proficiency from their first year through their chief residency.

Learn more about Clinical Education.

Research training is an integral component of the USC Caruso Otolaryngology residency program, equipping residents with the skills to critically evaluate medical literature and develop their own research interests. Beginning in the PGY2 year, residents engage in hypothesis-driven scientific investigation, with research rigor increasing throughout their training. Dedicated research time in PGY3 and PGY4 allows residents to refine their projects with faculty mentorship and guidance. The program supports both clinical and basic research endeavors, offering coursework in study design and funding opportunities for national conference presentations. Residents culminate their research experience by presenting their projects at the annual Resident Research Symposium.

Learn more about Resident Research.

Current Rotations for USC OHNS Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Residents.

*PGY – Post-Graduate Year

Learn more Rotation Schedule.

General work benefits are provided by the County of Los Angeles and are negotiated for residents by the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR).

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is available for review at http://dhs.lacounty.gov/wps/portal/dhs/lacusc/GME

Learn more Salary and Benefits.

The USC Caruso Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery prioritizes resident wellness through a resident-led, faculty-supported Wellness Program designed to promote work-life balance, mental and physical health, and peer support. Established in 2018, this initiative addresses the growing issue of physician burnout by implementing targeted activities and advocacy efforts tailored to residents’ needs. With representatives from each PGY class and faculty liaisons Drs. Tamara Chambers and Michael Johns, the program fosters a supportive environment through engaging activities that enhance well-being. Its success has made it a model for similar wellness initiatives at USC and beyond.

Learn more Residency Wellness Program.