Professor and Vice Chair for Diversity, William K. Bowes Foundation Endowed Chair of Neurocritical Care, Medical Director, Adult Neurointensive Care Units & Director, Neurocritical Care Fellowship Program, Department of Neurology

Here is what Nerissa's nominator had to say about her:

“Great mentor for women and all neurology residents and students, excellent clinical teacher and professional mentor. “

Nominated by Natalie Neale, MD

Nerissa’s Bio:

Dr. Ko is is neurointensivist and vascular neurologist and spends her time clinically caring for adult patients in the neurointensive care unit. Her clinical focus includes complex vascular malformations, brain AVMs and aneurysms, while her research focus is on improving outcomes among patients who suffer from strokes, specifically after brain aneurysm rupture. Dr. Ko earned her medical degree at John A. Burns School of Medicine at the University of Hawaii, and completed a residency in neurology, followed by fellowships in neurocritical care and vascular neurology at UCSF where she also earned a master’s in clinical research.

Dr. Ko remains committed to the education and training of our future leaders in her role as Fellowship program Director and Vice Chair for Diversity in the Department of Neurology. Dr. Ko joined the Committee on the Status of Women (CSW) in 2013 and serves as the faculty co-chair of CSW supporting the community of women at UCSF. She remains a strong advocate for gender equity in her leadership role.

What advice would you give yourself early on in your career? To a woman entering your field today?

I am grateful to have my dream job working with the best people in the field at UCSF. It’s easy to feel like you may not be good enough at times, and working in academia can be humbling. In fact, my humility has served me well as it has fostered my drive to grow and learn, to be a better doctor, teacher and colleague, and in my current roles, a better leader that can listen and incorporate other points of view. To my younger self and to women entering into the field today, it’s important to stay true to yourself and your values and to remember to do the things you love that bring you joy.

Can you tell us about a significant role model or mentor in your life?

I have been fortunate to have many people, both men and women, serve as mentors and sponsors throughout my career. I always advise my trainees and colleagues that although you may have a primary mentor, having a team of people that you trust and can seek advice and honest feedback from will be an invaluable resource to your personal growth and career satisfaction.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with my family and look forward to family trips. I hope through our international travels my two daughters can feel more connected as citizens of the world.

Do you have a favorite song? If you had to choose an anthem, what would it be?

I listen to a broad range of music, but lately I have Cleo Sol ‘Fear When You Fly’ on repeat. I had the pleasure of seeing her perform live which is rare and recommend a listen if you are looking for an uplifting and inspiring voice. 

Meet other outstanding women of UCSF through Our Spotlight.