ASNR Member Spotlight: Dr. Christopher M. Lack
Christopher M. Lack, MD, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Radiology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where he also serves as Co-Section Head of Neuroradiology and has been the Neuroradiology Fellowship Director for the past nine years. He completed both his MD and PhD at Wake Forest University, where he also went on to complete his diagnostic radiology residency and neuroradiology fellowship training.
Dr. Lack was nominated by Dr. Bhavana Budigi for the Member Spotlight: “Being an excellent mentor and former program director, he has helped shape the careers of many trainees with a gentle yet guiding hand. His consistency and clarity are reflected not only in his work in neuroradiology but also in his interactions with people. It is physicians like him who do the quiet, resilient work that carries forward through generations of scholars—creating a beautiful ripple effect in academia.“
How did you become interested in neuroradiology?
I was drawn to neuroradiology because of the complexity and elegance of neuroanatomy, the value we add to our clinical colleagues, and the opportunity to contribute to a field that continues to advance rapidly. My interest in the field was also a natural fit given my background in neuroscience during my PhD training, which deepened my appreciation for the structure and function of the nervous system. I also appreciated that neuroradiology felt like one of the most challenging areas of radiology—one that requires humility, curiosity, and lifelong learning. That ongoing intellectual challenge has remained one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.
Why did you join ASNR?
My interest in ASNR began when I attended the annual meeting as a resident. It was inspiring to hear expert neuroradiologists from around the world teach not only what we had learned as a field, but also help us imagine where the field might go next. I knew immediately that this was a community I wanted to be part of. Since then, ASNR meetings and lectures have remained one of the best ways for me to reconnect with the excitement of neuroradiology, continue learning, and feel reinvigorated about the work we do.
How has your life experiences shaped your approach to your career?
My journey—from growing up in a small town in southern Sweden to where I am today—has not been carefully planned or linear. Rather, it has been shaped by experiences, opportunities, challenges, and the people around me. I have come to value the journey itself more than any particular achievement or endpoint. In that sense, I am continually inspired by the successes and struggles of every patient, trainee, and colleague I encounter. Each has helped shape the way I think about my work, my responsibilities, and the importance of remaining open to growth along the way.
Can you talk more about your approach to mentoring the next generation of radiologists?
I have been fortunate to work with many trainees over the years, and I believe the impact I have had on their careers comes from a consistent, steady approach to mentoring. For me, mentoring and teaching are closely intertwined and begin with listening—truly understanding where a trainee is in their development and what they need to move forward. I strive to create a supportive, judgment-free environment where questions are welcomed and where we can work together to build confidence and deepen understanding.
Rather than simply providing answers, I aim to guide trainees at their current level and help them develop the skills and perspective they need to grow independently. I try to bring clarity, patience, and respect to each interaction, recognizing that even small, steady efforts over time can have a meaningful influence. Watching trainees develop into confident, thoughtful radiologists—and knowing that they will go on to mentor others—is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. In that way, mentorship extends far beyond any single interaction, hopefully creating a lasting impact that will be handed down to the next generation of radiologists and, most importantly, to the patients we serve.
