RSNA Member Spotlight: Maria Lucia Brun-Vergara, MD
Learn more about a fellow RSNA member
Maria Lucia Brun-Vergara, MD, is an assistant professor of radiology in the Division of Neuroradiology at the University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital in Canada.
Dr. Brun earned her medical degree from Universidad de los Andes in Colombia and completed her radiology residency at Fundación Santa Fe de Bogotá, where she was recognized as resident of the year.
She then completed a two-year diagnostic neuroradiology fellowship—with additional emphasis on spine interventions—at the University of Ottawa, where she was awarded fellow teacher of the year.
In 2025, following her first year as a neuroradiology faculty member, Dr. Brun was honored with the neuroradiology staff teacher of the year award.
Dr. Brun has been involved in RSNA activities that reflect her strong commitment to international radiology collaboration. In 2021, she was selected to participate in RSNA’s Introduction to Research for International Young Academics (IRIYA) program. Then, in 2023, she received a travel award to attend RSNA’s Building Connections Across the Americas: Addressing Access to Radiology program in São Paulo.
Through her ongoing engagement, Dr. Brun also contributes to RSNA’s educational and communications efforts. On Instagram and X, she runs the accounts for Casos del Frasco de Cooky, the official Spanish-language version of Cases from the Cooky Jar. This popular account shares unique cases from the teaching file of RadioGraphics editor Christine Cooky Menias, MD.
Deeply passionate about clinical education, global radiology and leadership in radiology, Dr. Brun serves on the RSNA Regional Committee for Latin America and co-chairs the communications subcommittee of the RSNA Resident and Fellow Committee. She is also editor in chief of the R3 Newsletter and an assistant editor of RadioGraphics.
What or who sparked your interest in radiology?
The very first sparks came from two worlds that shaped me long before I became a radiologist. One was my father, a radiologist, whom since childhood I watched transform shadows on a screen into answers that changed lives.
The other was photography—learning to truly see, to search for meaning in light, contrast and detail. Together, they taught me that an image is never just an image; it is a story waiting to be understood.
Today, as a neuroradiologist and spine interventionalist, I carry that lesson into every case: relieving pain, giving diagnoses, advocating for patients and communicating with clarity and compassion.
Every scan I interpret and every procedure I perform is both science and art. Every report is my signature on a life that deserves to be seen, heard and cared for.
What has been your best professional accomplishment?
It’s hard for me to define a single moment as my “best” professional accomplishment, because I see my career as a continuum of meaningful steps rather than one isolated event.
What I’m most proud of is having built a path that bridges imaging, minimally invasive interventions, research and education, while always placing patients at the center. I truly believe that behind every image I interpret there is a real person—often in pain, anxious and waiting for answers—and that awareness guides every decision I make.
Relieving pain through image-guided procedures, providing clear and responsible diagnoses, mentoring trainees and contributing to educational resources have all been moments of deep fulfillment.
Knowing that my work can ease suffering, guide care and shape how future radiologists will practice is something I am especially proud of and might consider one of my greatest accomplishments.
What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your career?
Transitioning across countries and health care systems and establishing myself in a highly specialized field was both professionally and personally demanding, yet deeply fulfilling and meaningful.
Adapting to new standards, cultures and expectations, while maintaining excellence in patient care taught me resilience, humility and the importance of lifelong learning. It also strengthened my commitment to communication, teamwork and advocacy—values that continue to define my practice.
At the same time, I believe my greatest challenge may still be ahead, as I prepare to become a mother—the title that will make me the proudest. Balancing the best of both worlds undoubtably will be challenging, but I know that my family has been, and will continue to be, my strongest source of support.
I am incredibly grateful for the experiences I’ve had along the way and for all the people who have supported me through each phase of my journey—my family, friends, pets, colleagues, wonderful mentors and allied staff. Their guidance, encouragement and presence have been instrumental in helping me navigate challenges and grow both personally and professionally.
What RSNA resources do you enjoy using?
RSNA has been central to my growth through its educational courses, journals such as RadioGraphics and online learning platforms like EdCentral.
Perhaps my favorite and most impactful “resource” has been the annual meeting, where I have had the privilege of being selected for the IRIYA program and participating in multiple presentations, events and committees.
These experiences have allowed me to advocate for my colleagues and my roots—such as through the RSNA Regional Committee—while also connecting with a global community of educators and clinicians and refining both my clinical and teaching skills.
Being actively involved in RSNA initiatives has not only shaped my career but also given me the opportunity to contribute back to a community that has given me so much.
When you’re not working, how do you like to spend your free time?
Outside of work, I cherish time with my family and my three dogs, who always keep life joyful and lively. I am passionate about travel, constantly planning my next trip, because I believe that immersing yourself in new cultures is one of the richest ways to learn and grow.
Photography continues to be a lens through which I see the world—training me to notice details, patterns and stories. I also love dancing, gymnastics and baking, which allow me to be creative and present in the moment.