Think Like an Internist. Practice Like an ER Physician.
Our dual-accredited EM/IM residency program provides a rigorous and versatile foundation for postgraduate training at one of the nation’s top federally funded public research universities. As a resident, you’ll learn to think critically and adapt fluidly across multiple hospital systems, preparing you for the dynamic realities of modern healthcare.
Welcome to the UIC Emergency Medicine/Internal Medicine (EM/IM) Residency Program!
We recently celebrated our 27th graduating class and are proud to have over 65 EM/IM alumni making a difference across the country — and the world. You’re not just joining a program—you’re becoming part of a legacy.
| EM/IM Program Director
Read the full welcome message
Read the full welcome message
Why UIC EM/IM? Clinical Excellence is the foundation of everything we do. Combining our four-hospital consortium emergency medicine model with internal medicine training in a University and VA setting, this is where you’ll grow into a master clinician, ready to adeptly manage any patient in any setting.
Support is not just a promise—it’s a practice. Residency is challenging no matter where you go, but here, you’ll never face those challenges alone. You’ll be part of a community that pushes each other to grow while offering mentorship, camaraderie, and the resources to thrive. We don’t mold you into a preset version of a dual-trained physician—we support your unique path and help you discover what EM/IM can look like for you.
Diversity and Advocacy are integral to our identity. Wherever your passion lies, we value your background and your voice. We’re committed to training physicians who reflect and advocate for the communities they serve.
Leadership is expected—and nurtured. Our residents are leaders in the ED, ICU, wards, and clinics. They teach, serve on influential committees, and advocate for both their peers and their patients. You’ll be challenged to lead from the beginning of residency, and you’ll be supported every step of the way.
We’re excited to meet you, learn about your goals, and show you how UIC EM/IM can help you achieve them. Ask about our rotations, our mentorship, and our community. We’re proud of what we’ve built—and even more excited about what you’ll bring to it.
Welcome to UIC. Let’s build something great together.
Are you ready for the challenge?
Throughout our five-year program, we’ll prepare you for dual board certification in both Emergency Medicine and Internal Medicine—and we’ll be your strongest support system along the way. The skills and resilience you gain here will extend to the patients and communities you serve.
UIC’s dual training program empowers you to chart your course within the field of medicine. Our graduates have gone on to become:
- International Clinic Directors
- Program and Fellowship Directors
- Department Chairs
- Vice Presidents of Healthcare Organizations
- Fellows across every major subspecialty
We’ll help get you where you want to go. We’re a resident-driven, innovative, and adaptive program committed to shaping the next generation of physician leaders. Join our community—and become the leader you’re meant to be.
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Our Chiefs
Dr. Nicolette "Nikki" Alberti
Dr. Alberti is a graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she developed a strong foundation in compassionate, community-centered care. Her academic interests include global health, public health, and the complex intersections of addiction and homelessness medicine. She is passionate about working with underserved populations and advocating for equitable healthcare systems.
Outside of medicine, she finds joy and balance in hiking, hammocking, and getting lost in a good book. Her approach to both life and medicine is grounded in curiosity, empathy, and a commitment to service.
Dr. Cameron "Cam" Allen
Dr. Cameron Allen is a graduate of A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, with a strong interest in critical care.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Allen enjoys spending time outdoors, playing and watching sports, traveling, and experimenting in the kitchen. He’s also a fan of local breweries and finds joy in discovering new places through food, drink, and community.
Dr. Charles "CJ" Benson
Dr. Benson is a graduate of SUNY Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine. His academic interests lie at the intersection of medicine and society, with a focus on social determinants of health, social emergency medicine, and public health policy.
Outside the clinical setting, Dr. Benson enjoys hiking, going to the beach, and surfing. He’s also an avid sports fan, both on and off the field, and spends his downtime reading, playing video games, and attending live concerts.
Our Alumni
Our Alumni
Class of 2023
- Paul Blessing | Global Health Fellow, UIC Emergency Physician and Hospitalist, Chicago
- Ryan Dwyer | Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine Fellow, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center
- Dorota Stobierska | Emergency Physician and Hospitalist, Chicago
- Mike Niroumandpour | Emergency Physician and Hospitalist, NYC
Class of 2022
- Lily Cheng, MD | Fellowship: Pulmonary Critical Care, Emory University
- Rebecca Kreston, MD | Jefferson EM and Hospitalist
Class of 2021
- Aaron Case, MD | Fellowship: Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins
- Emily Wheelis, MD | Fellowship: Wilderness Medicine, University of New Mexico
- Will Brumley, MD | Applying to Pulm/CCM Fellowship
Class of 2020
- Sal Calo, MD | Fellowship: Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Ohio
- Alexander Davies, MD | Fellowship: Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, University of Maryland
- Justin Kosirog, MD | Fellowship: Gastroenterology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Cent