Bijan

Abar

Clinical and Research Interests

I am interested in combining emergency medicine and engineering to develop innovative medical devices and tools. For example, my current work focuses on creating a closed-loop system to automatically titrate vasoactive infusions and precisely control a patient’s blood pressure. I’m passionate about using technology to improve patient care and efficiency in acute settings.

What were you looking for in a residency program?

When looking for a residency program, I wanted a supportive and fun group of co-residents, faculty who are genuinely excited to teach, and a wide range of clinical experiences that would prepare me for life as an attending.

What are the strengths of the Duke program?

The hospital’s central location on campus provides access to the entire university, including the Makerspace across the street, where residents can use free 3D printing resources. The faculty truly care about our education and invest significant time and energy into developing high-yield learning opportunities, such as simulation days. Most importantly, the residents go out of their way to support each other, creating a strong sense of community.

What advice do you have for incoming interns?

For incoming interns, I always recommend reaching out to current residents to get a feel for what the program is really like. Residency is hard work, but it’s also much more rewarding and enjoyable than being a medical student. The increased responsibility can feel overwhelming at first, but you’ll find that there’s an incredible amount of support every step of the way.

What do you like best about living in Durham and the Triangle?

Living in Durham and the Triangle has been a great experience. I love getting to enjoy all four seasons with mild winters, a low cost of living, and easy access to both the mountains and the beach.

What do you like to do outside of Duke?

Outside of Duke, I spend my time climbing at Triangle Rock Club, playing sand volleyball, cooking Persian food, and hiking around the Triangle or near Asheville.