Adult Neurology Residency | Hackensack University Medical Center
Welcome Message from the Program Directors
Welcome to the Adult Neurology Residency Program at Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) and Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. We are thrilled to be launching our inaugural class in July 2026. As we embark on this exciting journey, our mission is to train the next generation of neurologists in a dynamic, supportive, interprofessional and innovative academic environment. We are committed to academic excellence, mentorship, wellness, and leadership development.
Located in Hackensack, New Jersey, HUMC is the flagship academic medical center for the Hackensack Meridian Health network and the largest teaching hospital for Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. Our residency program is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in all areas of neurology while offering robust training in subspecialty areas. Inspired by the best practices provided in our institution, we emphasize progressive autonomy, scholarly activity, and patient-centered care. Graduates of our program will be well prepared to excel in both academic and private practice settings.
Clinical Training Sites
All inpatient neurology rotations take place at HUMC in Hackensack, while outpatient experiences are centered at our state-of-the-art ambulatory care pavilion in Paramus (approximately 20 minutes away) and at the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine campus. Residents will benefit from training across a range of practice settings and under the guidance of expert faculty.
Our Faculty and Educational Culture
You will learn from more than 50 full-time faculty members at HUMC, many of whom are leaders in their subspecialties. All neurology faculty hold appointments at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. In recognition of the importance of teaching our over 600 medical students, each resident receives a faculty appointment as a “medical associate.” Our program fosters a collaborative academic environment where mentorship, diversity, and continuous learning are prioritized.
Resident-Centered Program Development
We are creating a residency culture where residents are active contributors to the development of the program. Your voice will matter. Through regular resident-only forums, PD-resident meetings, and mentorship initiatives, we aim to create a training environment that prioritizes well-being, inclusivity, shared decision-making, and professional growth.
Opportunities in Research and Education
Residents will have abundant opportunities to participate in clinical trials, basic science collaborations, and quality improvement projects. Our partnership with Hackensack Meridian Health and its research institutes provides fertile ground for innovation in neurological care. As we grow, the program will offer structured tracks in education, research, and clinical excellence tailored to each resident’s goals.
Commitment to Wellness and Recognition
We are committed to fostering an environment that values wellness, professionalism, and camaraderie. We celebrate resident achievements through monthly recognitions and scholar awards and actively encourage self-care, and peer support. Our faculty and leadership are accessible and deeply invested in resident success. We are aware that residents have families and deserve a work-life balance. We recognize each others’ cultures & holidays. HUMC has a great child care program for staff, faculty & residents right on campus.
Your Future Starts Here
We are seeking applicants who are curious, compassionate, collaborative, and committed to excellence. If you are excited by the prospect of shaping a new program and building something meaningful from the ground up, we welcome you to join us at HUMC.
Please feel free to reach out with questions. We look forward to meeting you and learning more about your aspirations.

Jafar Kafaie, M.D., Ph.D.
Vice Chair for Education, Hackensack University Medical Center
Vice Chair for Graduate Education & Professor of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
Northern Region Director of Neuromuscular Diseases, Hackensack Meridian Health

Jonathan B. Tiu, M.D.
Associate Program Director, Adult Neurology Residency Program, Hackensack University Medical Center
Director, Neurorehabilitation Division, Hackensack University Medical Center
Assistant Professor of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
Contact Us
Maidhily Balakrishnan
Residency Program Coordinator
Department of Neurology, Hackensack University Medical Center
Phone: 848-308-4337
Email: maidhily.balakrishnan@hmhn.org