Special Interests
Biography
Justin D. Hilliard, M.D., is an Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL. His primary focus is performing deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery for the treatment of medically refractory movement disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, Essential tremor, and dystonia.
Dr. Hilliard graduated cum laude with research distinction from Duke University with a B.S.E. in biomedical engineering. He then enrolled at the University of Virginia where he earned his medical degree with research honors. During his time in medical school, he returned to Duke University for a year as a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Medical Fellow, investigating the mechanisms of action underlying deep brain stimulation. He then transitioned to the University of Florida where he conducted his neurosurgical residency.
During his residency training, Dr. Hilliard expanded his scope of practice by completing a fellowship in stereotactic and functional neurosurgery under the mentorship of distinguished Professor Dr. Kelly Foote, focusing on DBS surgery for movement disorders. Dr. Hilliard launched an NIH sponsored clinical research project to further explore the mechanisms of action of deep brain stimulation and improve its efficacy. He has been the recipient of several honors and awards throughout his training, including induction into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society, receiving the Society of Teaching Scholars Outstanding Resident Educator award, the UF neurosurgery “Chuck Shank” humanism award, and the UF neurosurgery “Tom Ellis” research award.
Beyond DBS, Dr. Hilliard enjoys treating the a full breadth of neurosurgical pathologies. He has extensive experience and a particular interest in the treatment of: brain tumors, spinal cord tumors, cranial trauma, and spine trauma. He is regarded as an advocate of neurosurgical education and is involved in the Congress of Neurological Surgeon’s Education Committee where he currently serves as chair of the webinar committee.
Dr. Hilliard values his patients deeply and seeks to ensure that they have a comprehensive understanding of their condition and potential treatment options. He is committed to teaming with patients and their families throughout their pre-operative evaluation, surgery, and post-operative course.