David Reisner, M.D., joined the UAB Department of Radiology faculty September 2025 as a clinical associate professor. He completed his undergraduate studies in economics at the University of Pennsylvania before earning a medical degree from Sidney Kimmel Medical College (then known as Jefferson Medical College) of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Learn more about his background and his goals for his new role.
Can you share your professional background and experiences prior to joining our institution?
Reisner: I completed a one-year preliminary internship in Internal Medicine at Hahnemann University Hospital of Drexel University. I completed my radiology residency at Allegheny Health Network in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where I served as chief resident (alongside current residency program director Dr. Coz Burgan!). I then completed a one-year fellowship in abdominal imaging at Johns Hopkins University and remained on faculty at Johns Hopkins for over nine years before coming to UAB. While focused on all aspects of abdominal imaging, I primarily worked in oncologic CT imaging, working closely with a wide range of clinicians, as well as radiology residents and fellows.
What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
Reisner: I was inspired to pursue a career in radiology because it combines exciting, advanced technology with detailed problem-solving to detect and monitor complex diseases. I’m motivated by the opportunity to play a key role in early disease detection, guiding treatment, and improving patient outcomes through precise, image-based diagnosis.
What is your primary area of expertise within your field, and what sparked your passion for it?
Reisner: My passion for oncologic CT stems from the ability to make a meaningful difference in patient care through early detection, precise follow-up, and complex problem-solving. I find it deeply rewarding to use imaging to guide treatment decisions and help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.
What aspects of your new role here are you most excited about?
Reisner: I’m most excited about using advanced abdominal imaging to directly improve patient care, particularly through early diagnosis and treatment planning. I also look forward to working with residents and collaborating on multidisciplinary teams to ensure each patient benefits from a comprehensive, team-based approach.
What are your goals for making an impact through both your teaching and patient care in this role?
Reisner: My goal is to make an impact by providing high-quality, thoughtful imaging interpretations that directly improve patient outcomes, while also fostering the next generation of radiologists. Through teaching, I aim to help residents develop strong clinical reasoning skills and an appreciation for the role imaging plays in multidisciplinary care. Ultimately, I hope to advance both patient care and education by emphasizing accuracy, collaboration, and compassion.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Reisner: I am looking forward to being a part of the UAB team!