Graduate Medical Education Residents

Asli Aykanat, MD: Koc University School of Medicine

About Me:

I am from Turkey, where I completed medical school before moving to Boston to pursue a postdoctoral fellowship in neurogenetics, focusing on rare disorders, in the Beggs Lab in the Department of Genetics. My journey to child neurology was shaped by personal experiences with my sister’s epilepsy. My clinical and research interests include rare neuro-genetic disorders, specifically genetic epileptic encephalopathies focused on chanelopathies. I am deeply committed to mentorship and medical education and have the privilege of serving as one of the administrative chief residents this year. Next, I will be completing a one-year epilepsy fellowship at Boston Children’s Hospital.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with close friends over wine and cheese or a traditional Turkish breakfast. I also love drawing, painting, and reading science fiction novels!

Why Boston?

I am someone who learns best through hands-on experience and exposure to a wide variety of cases. I chose the Child Neurology/NDD residency at Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH) because I knew I would gain broad clinical experience—from common conditions to ultra-rare disorders—while being mentored by world-renowned experts.

Another important factor I considered when choosing a residency was finding a place where I could build strong mentorship relationships. As a research fellow at BCH, I was fortunate to have incredible mentors, and during my residency interviews, it became clear that the leadership and faculty were genuinely invested in residents’ academic and clinical development. That sense of support and commitment to growth made BCH stand out as the ideal place to continue my training.

Kayla Berry, MD, PhD: Washington University School of Medicine; Harvard College

About Me:

My roots are in East Tennessee. From there, I went to Harvard for Undergrad and did my MD/PhD training at WashU in St. Louis. I plan to have a physician-scientist career, combining my prior experience in structural biology and immunology training with my interest in Neuroimmunology. Currently I am working on a research project studying the molecular mechanisms underlying MOGAD. When I do have free time, I love to bake and cook, hike with my husband and puppies, explore wine and cocktails, play violin, garden and learn new languages! 

Why Boston?

I chose BCH Child Neurology for a few major reasons. #1 (and 2 and 3) Because of the residents! I was struck by the extraordinarily caring and compassionate nature of the residents, for each other and for the patients they cared for. This has truly kept me going during hard times in residency. We are a fun group  #2 Research opportunities. As someone who is passionate about research, I saw BCH, Harvard and Boston in general as an amazing place with a plethora and richness of research opportunities and resources. I was also happy to see BCH Neuro residents engaging in research during residency. #3 I love Boston and grew fond of this place during my college years. So I was happy to come back!

Gonca Bektas, MD: Istanbul Faculty of Medicine

About Me:

I grew up in Turkey, where I completed my child neurology residency and developed a strong interest in epilepsy. My passion for the field led me to seek further training in Europe and the U.S., including programs at the Cleveland Clinic, Children’s National Hospital, Johns Hopkins, and the San Servolo Epilepsy Summer School. These experiences inspired me to pursue a child neurology residency and epilepsy fellowship in the U.S. In my free time, I enjoy skiing, swimming, and spending time with family and friends.

Why Boston?

I chose BCH for its outstanding educational environment, exceptional research opportunities, and the supportive, welcoming atmosphere.

Michelle Crough, MD: Case Western Reserve; Boston University

About Me:

Hi there! My name is Michelle. I’m from Ohio originally and did medical school at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland but I went to Boston University for college and was so excited to come back to Boston for residency because I love the city! I’m a big fan of eating great food and drinking coffee/matcha, baking, musicals, cat-sitting, going on fun trips on the weekend (NYC, Vermont), and watching reality TV (just finished Love Island USA).

Why Boston?

The best parts of BCH Neurology are my co-residents! I love having such an amazing group of people around who I can bond with over shared experiences and interests.

Cristina Liberati, MD: La Sapienza – University of Rome

About Me:

My name is Cristina and I am a PGY5 child neurology resident at BCH. I am originally from Italy (Rome), so naturally, I love pizza, gelato and travelling around the world! I am a huge fan of roller coasters and theme parks, and I find every excuse to cosplay! I am also a space nerd, with a professional interest in space medicine and how microgravity affects the nervous system. I am excited to see what my final year of this incredible journey called residency will bring, and I cannot wait to start my neuromuscular fellowship in 2026 at MGH/BWH here in Boston!

Why Boston?

I was part of the first wave of residency applicants to experience virtual interviews due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I still remember how much I laughed during the post-interview virtual happy hour with the BCRP/Child Neurology residents and leadership — I had not realized you could truly grasp a team’s dynamic through a screen until that moment.

I am very glad to be part of this program. Being surrounded by incredibly talented professionals—from admin staff to co-residents, RNs, attendings, and more—has contributed to an exciting journey of daily learning—not only about pediatrics and neurology, but also about philosophy, history, ziplining, literature, piloting, and more!!!
I have felt supported not only in my day-to-day work but also in my future and whatever comes next!

“There is no greater thrill than the quest for knowledge.” — Gene Cernan (last man on the Moon)

PS: Boston has amazing gelato!

Rasesh Joshi, MD, PhD: Wake Forest School of Medicine; Duke University

About Me:

I grew up mostly around different parts of North Carolina. I completed by undergraduate studies in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Duke University and my MD/PhD at Wake Forest School of Medicine. My research interests are in computational and signal processing approaches to studying neurophysiology. I’m hoping to pursue a clinical/research career at the intersection of epilepsy, neurocritical care, and global neurology. Outside the hospital I love to read and cook! I live with my wife who’s an IM attending and our wonderful cat who we both happen to be allergic to!

Why Boston?

BCH is an incredibly supportive and robust academic environment. We have the opportunity to carve our own unique, individual niche with mentorship in virtually every subspecialty in Neurology and so many amazing institutions around Boston. Clinically, we’re also fortunate to get to work with patients across the whole spectrum of Child Neurology, from incredibly rare N-of-1 pathologies to common complaints. Boston has also been wonderful as a city – not too big, not too small, with plenty to do!

Miguel Morales, MD: Universidad Dr. Jose Matias Delgado Escuela de Medicina

About Me:

Growing up in El Salvador, I discovered during medical school that my true passion was working with children. This calling led me to complete a pediatrics residency in Cleveland, followed by child neurology training at Boston Children’s Hospital. Outside the hospital, I enjoy exploring creativity through photography, soccer, theater, writing, and the fine arts.

Why Boston?

I chose Boston Children’s because I wanted to grow in a program that balances excellence with purpose. Its combination of rigorous training, a culture of innovation and research, and a patient-centered mission resonated with my own values as a physician

Corey Duke, MD, PhD: University of Alabama School of Medicine

About Me:

I grew up in small towns across Oklahoma, ended up in Alabama where I spent half my life, and now here I am all shipped up to Boston. I’m 6’3” and used to be able to slam dunk a basketball, but probably can’t anymore. I enjoy slowing down and listening to people, helping them get through things, often losing track of time doing so. I probably need to get haircuts more frequently than I do. I really really love ice cream, and am someone who tries all the flavors before settling. I’m the kind of person who isn’t particularly stressed about landing in a new place on a last minute trip without having a hotel or hostel booked in advance. I picked child neurology in part because I wanted to help deliver the promises of gene therapy, which I believe will continue to come to fruition during my career. I’m still figuring out exactly what i want to specialize in, and I love that there are incredible mentors here for whichever route I choose who are helping guide me.

Why Boston?

I knew I needed to be surrounded by people who believed in me and my potential, especially in the moments I would struggle to believe in myself – a place that would be patient with me as I grow, see the good stuff despite me for instance submitting this bio late.  I knew I would be surrounded by incredible co-residents from diverse walks of life enabling our different backgrounds and strengths to blend and make each of us stronger. The mentors and friends here lift each other up, are always listening and learning and supporting each other. It’s what makes this place so special, grows everyone here into incredible child neurologists who reach their potential and serve our community well.

Cristian Delgado, MD: University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine; University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus

About Me:

Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, I studied Cell and Molecular Biology with a minor in Theater at the University of Puerto Rico, Río Piedras. My clinical interests include epilepsy, neurocritical care, and epilepsy surgery. I’m especially drawn to clinical research that bridges lab discoveries with real patient care; my past work focused on patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) at MD Anderson.

Outside the hospital, you’ll probably find me at a Broadway show (I’ve been lucky to see 60+ shows), hunting for the best local coffee, planning my next trip (my goal is to visit all five continents before 30), or dancing around my kitchen to a cast recording. I’m a beach lover, brunch enthusiast, and proud dog parent to Valentino, my dachshund who’s currently back home in Puerto Rico.

Why Boston?

Boston Children’s offers the full spectrum of child neurology, from common presentations to the most complex cases, and I wanted a program where I could be exposed to it all. As a medical student visiting the hospital, I immediately felt the perfect balance of academic excellence and genuine warmth. As a queer provider, I also deeply value how safe, inclusive, and affirming this environment feels, something that truly sets this institution apart.

Kara Garrett, MD: University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine; Belmont University

About Me:

My name is Kara! I lived my whole life in Tennessee before coming to Boston for residency (fun fact: I went to medical school in Memphis, TN where there is a Bass Pro shop considered to be the 10th largest pyramid in the world!). I love to read, go to musicals, and I have lists of the best sweet treats and best matcha in Boston. I am currently interested in neuroimmunology and epilepsy and look forward to exploring this more!

Why Boston?

I chose Boston Children’s because it was clear that at this hospital we would be exposed to many different neurologic conditions. As someone still trying to figure out my interest, I appreciated how focused all the faculty were on trying to shape my experience and my career to be as unique as I wanted. The people here are so supportive, and we make sure to have as much fun as we can each step of the way!

William Babinchak, MD, PhD: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine; University of Miami (Coral Gables, Florida)

About Me:

Hi! I’m so excited you took the time to check out our residency page and get to know us. A little about me: I was born and raised in the Florida heat, where I first developed an interest in science (and also in cooler climates). At the University of Miami, I spent my undergraduate education studying chemistry, music, and religious studies. Afterwards, my passion for neurology flourished as I completed my M.D. and Ph.D. training at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, where I studied mechanisms of protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases. As part of the categorical pediatrics program, I trained in the BCRP at Boston Children’s and am so happy to be a part of the Child Neurology Residency Training Program. I have a flourishing interest in circadian medicine and using it as a tool to improve the care we provide our patients. Personally, I enjoy spending time with my loving wife and two cats, fixing up our home that we purchased, playing music, and takings trips to explore national parks around the country.

Why Boston?

Each of us is on our own path and season of life. One of my personal core values in training and medical education is flexibility. Flexibility to be who you are and chase whatever passions come your way. I chose this program for that very reason — for me, that flexibility translated to research. For so many of my co-residents, I have seen them flourish in their personal goals and aspirations because of the flexibility offered here. And while there is room to explore and days can be challenging, the friendships and support that I have built through this residency program make each day brighter and drive me to learn, have fun, and provide the best patient care possible.

Shanna Yue, MD: Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Bowdoin College

About Me:

I am originally from the NYC area and went to college at Bowdoin in Maine, spent two years in DC, then completed medical school at Johns Hopkins. Outside of the hospital I enjoy rock climbing, skiing, running, hiking, and trying new restaurants. I’m interested in medical education and health advocacy within child neurology.

Why Boston?

I picked Boston Children’s Child Neurology because I knew I wanted a large program that saw a variety of cases, as I learn best by doing. I was struck by the warm, collaborative atmosphere found both in the pediatrics and child neurology programs and knew that this is where I wanted to continue my training. I also love the New England area and all of its outdoor activities!

Chiadika Nwanze, MD, ABP: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health; Michigan State University

About Me:

Hobbies: exploring new recipes – I recently got an ice cream maker and excited to try it out.

Why Boston?

I wanted to train at a hospital that offered the breadth and depth of child neurology. I’m interested in Global Neurology and wanted to train in a program with leaders in the field that could serve as mentors.

Daniel Barson, MD, PhD: Yale Medical School; Princeton University

About Me:

I grew up in New York and am a reluctant transplant to Boston (by way of New Haven). Outside of the hospital, my time is filled by negotiating with my toddler, walking my dog around Jamaica Pond, and cooking with my spouse. In our pre-residency life, we enjoyed hosting lots of dinner parties and are hoping to return to that soon. I also enjoy anything outdoors including running, hiking, skiing, going to the beach, watching baseball, and biking. Before I graduate residency, I hope to learn how to sail. I also do basic neuroscience research.

Why Boston?

Boston offers a nice combination of urban living with close proximity to ocean, mountains, and beautiful places to hike. Boston Children’s is an amazing organization full of smart and interesting people who are committed to advancing the care of children. Also, there is a strong emphasis on research and a unique amount of support for basic science (particularly neuroscience).

Alexandra Brooks, MD, PhD: Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED); New York University

About Me:

I’m originally from New Jersey and am a parent of two hilarious, energetic kids — one of whom was born during residency! Outside the hospital, I love soaking up the full New England fall experience in the suburbs. Most weekends in the fall, you can find me at a local orchard picking apples, sipping apple cider (slush is the best, can’t change my mind), and eating far too many cider donuts. I also play viola in the Longwood Symphony Orchestra, which has been an amazing way to stay connected to music and recharge after busy rotations. Academically, I’m passionate about gene therapies, particularly for rare neurological disorders, and my goal is to be involved in translational research to help bring these cutting-edge therapies from the lab to the kids and families who need them most.

Why Boston?

I chose Boston Children’s because it offered everything I was looking for—amazing clinical training, the chance to get involved in gene therapy research, and the flexibility to shape the program around my interests. Being close to family was also very important to me, especially with having young children, and it’s been wonderful to live within an hour of most of my relatives. It’s been the perfect place for me to grow as a physician scientist and for my children to grow up, and I feel very fortunate to be part of such a supportive, inspiring community.

Jenna Harowitz, MD: University of Pennsylvania Medical School; University of Pennsylvania

About Me:

I am originally from the Philadelphia area, born and raised. I attended the University of Pennsylvania for my undergraduate education (where I majored in neuroscience) and stayed for medical school. Ever since moving to Boston for residency, I have loved it! I am interested in neuroimmunology, medical education, and clinical research. Outside of the hospital, you can find me exploring fun Boston pop-ups, toppling over at Daniel L’s yoga classes, spending time with my friends (from residency and beyond), and sometimes even catching a glimpse of my fiancé (not easy, since he’s an orthopedic surgery resident).

Why Boston?

I was drawn to the program for its strong training on both the pediatric and adult sides, the culture of the residents (including within the BCRP), and the incredible program leadership (who are so receptive to feedback and adaptive to change).

Daniel Loizzo, MD: University of Illinois College of Medicine – Chicago; Northwestern University

About Me:

I completed my undergraduate degree in Neuroscience from Northwestern University and a Master’s in Medical Sciences from Loyola University Chicago before attending medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine – Chicago. My clinical interests include epilepsy, neurogenetics, and neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly in children with Down Syndrome. This has driven my research interests in exploring the intersection of epilepsy and Down Syndrome, specifically infantile spasms. Outside of medicine, I am a 500 Hour registered yoga instructor and teach around 6 classes a week at multiple studios in Boston. I also enjoy musical theater, ice hockey/golf, and hiking.

Why Boston?

I chose Boston Children’s Hospital for Child Neurology because I could easily see myself building life-long relationships with the residents and attendings I met on interview day as well as the opportunity to train with and learn from world-renowned leaders in pediatric neurology.

Ahmed Malik, MD, PhD: University of Michigan Medical School; Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis

About Me:

I was born in Pakistan and moved to the U.S. when I was a kid. I bounced around a bit but spent the last big chunk of my life in the Midwest, doing college at IUPUI and MD/PhD at University of Michigan. I’m currently fairly open minded about what I want to do for clinical specialty and research focus. Outside of work, I love language and history, and fortunately for me Boston is the ideal city for a long audiobook stroll.

Why Boston:

I loved how friendly and welcoming the residents and faculty were, the quality of general pediatrics training, and the phenomenal research environment here that meant I could find something no matter what area I ultimately chose to pursue. Boston is also such a great, compact, walkable city!

Victoria Vivtcharenko, MD: University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine; Luther College

About Me:

My name is Victoria (Vivtcharenko) Mugge. I was born in Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine and moved to the US when I was 5 and a half years old. I went to Luther College, double majoring in Chemistry and Biology then attending University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine prior to completing my Pediatrics training at the BCRP at Boston Children’s Hospital.

I live in Mission Hill with my husband Bryan who’s a criminal defense attorney and our two wonderful cats, Beans and Juno. In my (somewhat limited) free time, I enjoy playing piano, drawing, and reading.

I am interested in pursuing Fetal and Neonatal Neurology with goals of leading an academic career with particular interests in clinical research, medical education, and community outreach.

We are so excited to be part of the BCH Child Neurology community and what the future entails!

Why Boston?

I chose Boston Children’s for my Child Neurology training because of the excellent (and world renown) clinical training, diverse patient population (with no shortage of the most rare conditions), and (sometimes most importantly) the most welcoming and supportive leadership.

Juliana Nitis, MD; Columbia University School of Medicine; Columbia University

About Me:

I spent my whole life in New York prior to coming to BCH for child neurology residency! I am currently deciding whether to commit to general pediatric neurology or subspecialize as I have loved everything within pediatric neurology so far. In my free time, I love reblooming orchids, cycling along the esplanade, and reading a good novel.

Why Boston?

I spent my whole life in New York prior to coming to BCH for child neurology residency! I am currently deciding whether to commit to general pediatric neurology or subspecialize as I have loved everything within pediatric neurology so far. In my free time, I love reblooming orchids, cycling along the esplanade, and reading a good novel.

Raja Pillai, MD, PhD (PGY-6): Stony Brook University; Yale University

About Me:

My clinical and research interests involve mental health in individuals with intellectual disability who have difficulty communicating what they are feeling. I am an amateur playwright, an avid Dungeons and Dragons DM, and a competitive whistler. My favorite thing to do is have food with friends.

Why Boston?

I chose Boston Children’s NDD program for the flexibility to tailor my training to my clinical interests, as well as the awesome people I’ve met!

Georgios Ntolkeras, MD (PGY-5): University of Thessaly, Greece

About Me:

Dr. Ntolkeras is a Chief resident in the Child Neurology and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities at Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School and a PGY-5 resident of the Neurodevelopmental Disabilities program at BCH. He completed his training in general pediatrics at Baystate Medical Center, UMass. He is also a researcher at the Fetal Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center at Boston Children’s Hospital. His research focuses on the development of new neurophysiological biomarkers in epilepsy using electro- and magneto- encephalography (EEG, MEG), as well as medical device development with novel EEG technologies and human model generation for numerical testing of medical devices.
Finally, he is a core member of The MIND Project, at Global Mental Health@Harvard, an initiative dedicated to tackling the scientific and life challenges caused by different mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions and improving mental health for all.

Why Boston?

I am drawn to Boston Children’s because it feels like a place where I could both be challenged and supported in becoming the neurologist I aspire to be. What excites me most is the combination of extraordinary clinical depth and a culture that genuinely prioritizes its residents. I want to train in an environment where I will see the rarest, most complex neurologic cases, yet also gain the confidence to manage the bread-and-butter pediatric neurology that defines day-to-day practice. BCH is exactly that place, a true reference center where each patient encounter teaches something new.

Equally important to me is the program’s vibrant research and academic community. I see myself surrounded by people who are not just experts in their fields, but also approachable mentors who are eager to involve residents in meaningful work. Whether that leads me toward projects in translational neuroscience, outcomes research, or broader initiatives in global child neurology, I know I’ll have the tools and mentorship to pursue it.
What makes BCH stand out to me is its clear commitment to shaping residents into leaders, whether in clinical practice, research, advocacy, or education. I was looking for a program where I would grow not only as a clinician but also as someone prepared to make a broader impact in pediatric neurology, and Boston Children’s is the ideal place to do that.

Matthew Linnehan, MD (PGY-4): University of Massachusetts T.H. Chan School of Medicine; Boston College

About Me:

Matt grew up in MA and attended Boston College for undergrad. He completed medical school at UMass Medical School in Worcester, MA and continued onto a combined Neurodevelopmental Disabilities residency program completing pediatrics training at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, MA and is currently continuing his training at Boston Children’s Hospital.

Some of Matt’s area of clinical and academic interest include Autism Spectrum Disorder and neurogenetics. Outside of the hospital, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter, two dogs and cat. He enjoys following Boston sports teams and exploring restaurants around Boston.

Why Boston?

I chose BCH because I had a great experience rotating here as a medical student. I was also excited to return to Boston and be close to family.

Nila Sivanenthiran, MD (PGY-4): University College Dublin

About me:

Nila Sivanenthiran is a fourth-year resident in the Neurodevelopmental Disabilities program. She earned her medical degree from University College Dublin in Ireland and completed the first two years of her pediatrics training at Baystate Medical Center. Nila has a strong clinical interest in caring for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, with a focus on addressing the genetic, cognitive, and medical comorbidities that often accompany the diagnosis. She is also passionate about quality improvement efforts aimed at reducing time to diagnosis and enhancing access to services for children and families affected by autism.

Why Boston?

The program directors and chief residents were so welcoming and genuinely interested in getting to know me as an individual, as well as in supporting the development of my professional goals. There are also so many great mentors here who offer outstanding guidance not only in traditional paths like clinical practice and research, but also in less conventional avenues such as medical innovation, advocacy, and healthcare policy. The hospital’s commitment to academic excellence makes it an ideal place to train!

Rebekka Vogelgsang, MD, PhD (PGY-3): Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg Medical School; Friedrich Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg

About Me:

As a medical student in Germany, I once volunteered my one-year-old child to take part as a “patient” in a pediatric exam course led by a visiting faculty member from Boston Children’s Hospital. I was deeply moved by the expertise, care, and understanding we experienced. It was my first personal encounter with BCH – a place where world-class medicine and genuine compassion go hand in hand.

When an unexpected opportunity led to my family’s relocation to the Boston area in 2019, that possibility motivated me to pursue medical practice in the US. I feel very fortunate to be a part of the NDD program, where learning and growth are fostered alongside kindness and empathy.

Prior to moving to the United States, I completed six years of medical school and a PhD in the field of Neurophysiology at the Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen. Afterward, I completed two years of a German Pediatric Residency and one year of Child Psychiatry Training.

Outside of medicine, I love spending time with my family – my husband, our two children, and our dog Theo! I love swimming, German cakes, and decaf coffee. 

Why Boston?

I chose Boston Children’s because I wanted to grow in a program that balances excellence with purpose. Its combination of rigorous training, a culture of innovation and research, and a patient-centered mission resonated with my own values as a physician.