Alvim graduated in 1887 with a degree in medicine from the Bahia School of Medicine. In 1896 he traveled to France and studied medical physics in the clinic of Marie Curie and Pierre Curie. While in Europe Alvim purchased X-ray equipment that would be installed in his clinic upon returning to Brazil. He was to establish clinics for electrotherapy, physiotherapy, radiotherapy and radiology in Rio de Janeiro. Alvim was the founder and director of clinics for: Assistance to Poor Children; Institute of Electricity; Electrology and Radiology Institute; and the Casa de la Cultura Laura Alvim.