The Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences is proud to share that Heather Cole, MD, will be assuming the role of Associate Program Director of the Nuclear Medicine Residency and Fellowship Programs.
Dr. Cole recently joined VUMC Radiology faculty as an Assistant Professor after spending time in our department as a nuclear medicine and diagnostic radiology resident. This makes her an optimal candidate to work alongside the Program Director, Nuclear Medicine’s Section Chief, Philip Scherer, MD.
“Stepping into this role is an incredibly exciting opportunity,” Dr. Cole says. “I am honored to work with our exceptional trainees and look forward to continuing the supportive environment where they are able to thrive, innovate, and shape the future of Nuclear Medicine.”
“We are appreciative that Dr. Cole has joined the Nuclear Medicine section at VUMC,” Dr. Scherer says. “As faculty and Associate Program Director of the Nuclear Medicine Residency and Fellowship Programs, she will assist in the administration of the Nuclear Medicine training programs and also help lead the Nuclear Medicine Pathway for Diagnostic Radiology residents interested in dual training in nuclear medicine and radiology. Dr. Cole will contribute positively to the clinical, educational, and research endeavors of our division, department, and institution, given the outstanding abilities in teaching, mentorship, and patient care she demonstrated as a resident. We look forward to the great things she will accomplish.”
Daniel Brown, MD, FSIR, Chair of the Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, shares Dr. Scherer’s enthusiasm.
“It is great to have Dr. Cole join—both as a faculty member and in this APD position,” Dr. Brown says . “I can personally attest to her diligence, clinical acumen, and attention to detail. Her addition is a huge win for the Department.”
In 2023, Dr. Cole was awarded the "Deitte Inspire Resident Award," because of her contributions towards launching an ultrasound initiative at the Shade Tree Clinic, a student-run health care center that provides free treatment for the uninsured. She’s no stranger to Vanderbilt, either. Before joining the radiology team, also completed two years of residency at VUMC in Orthopedics and Rehabilitation. Dr. Cole received her medical degree from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and her undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences from Colorado State University.
