International expertise strengthens Neuroradiology at Sahlgrenska University Hospital

Nerses Nersesyan Kocharyan brings a truly international perspective to Sahlgrenska University Hospital. Originally from Armenia, he grew up in Valencia, Spain, after his family relocated there during his teenage years. He completed his medical training in Spain and worked there for several years before moving to Canada for a two-year subspecialty fellowship in neuroradiology. He has also worked in Germany.

“Spain faces ongoing challenges in balancing workload and working conditions for doctors. Many physicians work long hours and feel they are not adequately compensated, while also seeking a better work–life balance. It is common for doctors to work in both the public and private sectors simultaneously. In Canada, physicians also work very hard, but they are compensated accordingly. The culture is very much centred around work. I found Canada to be an outstanding place to train, with a highly structured educational system. Every day required your full commitment. It was demanding, but also extremely rewarding,” he says.

When he received a job offer from Sahlgrenska University Hospital’s Department of Radiology in 2025, one of his first conversations was with his sister, who lives in Stockholm.

“She considers Sweden to be close to ideal and strongly encouraged me to move here. I have settled in very well. I appreciate the work–life balance, the focus on sustainability and practical benefits such as having an office, a computer and the flexibility to work from home when appropriate. There are many small things that make a big difference. I also have fantastic colleagues.”

He has also grown fond of Gothenburg, which he describes as a vibrant city of just the right size. There is, however, one aspect that remains a challenge. 
“Although I do not miss the intense heat of Spanish summers, I have to admit that the darkness of the Swedish winter can be difficult,” he says with a smile. 

Combining Technology and Clinical Insight 

As a neuroradiologist, Nerses specialises in diagnosing diseases and disorders affecting the brain, face, neck and upper spine. His work involves analysing imaging studies to identify abnormalities and determine whether changes are caused by inflammation, tumours or other conditions.

“Neuroradiology plays a vital role in ensuring that patients receive the right treatment and helps avoid unnecessary procedures. I have always been fascinated by the brain, the spine and the diseases that affect them. There is something particularly rewarding about investigating unusual findings and solving complex diagnostic puzzles.”

One thing that surprised him when he arrived in Sweden was how little known Sahlgrenska University Hospital is internationally.

Raising International Visibility

“Before coming here, I was familiar with Uppsala University Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital and even Linköping University Hospital, but not Sahlgrenska University Hospital. That surprised me, considering it is Sweden’s largest hospital and delivers highly advanced care across a wide range of specialties. I find that both surprising and somewhat unfair.”

To help strengthen the hospital’s international profile, particularly within Europe, he has taken the initiative to establish a new neuroradiology fellowship programme in collaboration with the European Society of Neuroradiology. Beginning this year, Sahlgrenska University Hospital will offer one fellowship position annually, starting in either August or December, which specialist trainees from across Europe will be able to apply for.

“There is a continual need for hospitals willing to provide high-quality training opportunities, and relatively few centres in Europe offer programmes like this. Sahlgrenska University Hospital is a large institution with a strong tradition of specialist training, making it an excellent environment for professional development.”

Strengthening the Team Through International Recruitment

For Karin Sundström, Head of the Neuroradiology Section at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, international recruitment plays a crucial role in maintaining and developing the service.

“In Sweden, the number of experienced neuroradiologists is relatively small, which makes national recruitment challenging. Specialists who are already established in a particular city are often reluctant to relocate, and private healthcare providers compete for the same expertise.”

She emphasises that international recruitment is therefore often the most realistic way to expand specialist capacity and ensure continued development.

“For us, international recruitment is essential to strengthening and advancing the service. The recruitment of Nerses, together with another highly skilled neuroradiologist from Portugal, has made a significant difference to our section. They bring extensive experience, new perspectives and specialist expertise that directly benefit our clinical work, while also enriching our academic and professional environment.” 

Through colleagues such as Nerses Nersesyan Kocharyan, Sahlgrenska University Hospital continues to strengthen its position as an internationally connected university hospital, where expertise, collaboration and innovation come together to improve patient care.