Hallak brings global perspective to PMDC fellowship

For Razan Hallak, M.D., joining the VCU Parkinson’s and Movement Disorders Center (PMDC) as a fellow in July 2025 represented the continuation of a journey that began nearly 6,000 miles away. 

Born and raised in Lebanon, Hallak says her “fascination in the human brain and how it functions” first drew her to medicine. She spent 11 years studying at the American University of Beirut, earning her bachelor of science in biology and her medical degree – both with distinction – followed by a neurology residency. “Throughout my residency, I encountered a wide range of neurological disorders,” she says. “But it was the field of movement disorder that truly captivated me.” 

Having witnessed her grandmother’s struggle with Parkinson’s disease further drove Hallak’s passion. “This gave me a firsthand understanding of the challenges,” she says. “I really want to make a difference in the lives of those similar to my grandmother.” 

Because she sees a need for more movement disorder specialists in Lebanon, Hallak sought opportunities to expand her training abroad. In 2023, she completed an observership at the Cleveland Clinic, where she was exposed to new cases and approaches. These experiences inspired her to pursue fellowship training in the U.S. – and ultimately led her to VCU. 

Now, several months into her fellowship, Hallak enjoys both the diversity of her clinical experiences and the collaborative spirit of the PMDC. “I’m getting exposed to this multidisciplinary approach, getting to see patients with various types of movement disorders, and it’s further solidifying my knowledge and passion for movement disorders,” she says. 

Hallak’s weekly schedule includes dedicated clinics for Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) and other conditions, along with time for research and educational activities. “Fridays are usually dedicated to education and didactics from the attendings, where they give us lectures and new information,” she says. 

Soon after arriving at VCU, Hallak attended the prestigious Aspen Course, an immersive annual event hosted by the International Parkinson’s and Movement Disorder Society in Aspen, Colorado. There, she learned about emerging treatments and therapies, explored complex case studies and networked with fellow movement disorder specialists. 

“It was an eye-opening experience for me,” Hallak says. She was particularly struck by how many of the cutting-edge clinical trials and treatment guidelines discussed there “are actually being conducted right here at VCU by the amazing faculty.” 

Outside the clinic, Hallak spends her free time playing the guitar and flute, dancing and playing tennis. She has enjoyed exploring the Richmond area, where she now lives in Short Pump. “I love the weather,” she says. “The people here actually are all very sweet and caring – you feel like you are safe.” 

Looking ahead, Hallak hopes to both increase her clinical skills and advocate for patients living with movement disorders. “I’d like this fellowship to prepare me to become not only a specialist, but also someone who contributes meaningfully to the field,” she says.