Majd Zayzafoon, M.D., Ph.D., MBA, professor of Pathology and Medical Education, has been named the associate dean for Global Initiatives and International Medical Education in the UAB Heersink School of Medicine. This new role expands his leadership and builds on his success as assistant dean, further positioning UAB’s role as a global leader in international medical education.
In this role, Zayzafoon will lead the Heersink School of Medicine’s global initiatives and international medical education programs, strengthening the school’s international presence and fostering high-impact global partnerships. His leadership will be instrumental in advancing Heersink School of Medicine’s commitment to preparing globally competent physicians, ensuring students and faculty benefit from diverse educational experiences that enhance their ability to address healthcare challenges worldwide.
Through his efforts, the school continues to expand its reach, creating opportunities that bridge cultures, advance medical knowledge, and foster collaboration with leading global institutions. By developing and executing new initiatives, Zayzafoon’s work will elevate the school’s international standing and further integrate global perspectives into the Heersink School of Medicine’s mission.
“This appointment is an opportunity to expand our global reach and redefine how we prepare future physicians for a connected world," Zayzafoon said. "By strengthening international partnerships and creating transformative learning experiences, we are not just advancing education, we are shaping the future of healthcare on a global scale. I am excited to build on our progress and drive meaningful change in the years ahead.”
Under Zayzafoon’s leadership, the UAB International Medical Education office has established and maintained more than 20 international mobility programs, providing over 600 students and graduates annually with transformative clinical training, research opportunities, and global health experiences.
A key initiative under his leadership is the Recognition of Distinction in Global Health, which aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and empowers UAB medical students to think globally, act locally, and lead boldly. Additionally, the International Visiting Medical Student Training Program welcomes more than 200 international students annually, offering them hands-on clinical training at UAB. Through these and other programs, Zayzafoon is shaping a generation of physicians who are equipped to lead in an increasingly interconnected world.
“Dr. Zayzafoon’s dedication and commitment to advancing our school’s mission and broadening international opportunities for our students has been a tremendous part of our success,” said Craig Hoesley, M.D., senior associate dean for Medical Education. “Through the International Medical Education office, he has contributed to advancing our positioning and partnerships on a global stage. I look forward to seeing the initiatives and student experiences he cultivates in the years to come.”
Zayzafoon earned his M.D. from Damascus University and completed his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology Fellowship in the United Kingdom. His passion for research led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Molecular Physiology at Michigan State University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in Pathology at UAB. In 2013, he furthered his expertise by earning an MBA from UAB, focusing on entrepreneurship and leadership.
Since joining UAB’s faculty in 2005, he has played an instrumental role in expanding UAB’s international footprint, building meaningful academic partnerships, and developing cutting-edge educational programs that enhance global health training and student development. He currently holds the prestigious title of Heersink Family Endowed Professor in International Medical Education and is a tenured Professor of Medical Education and Pathology.
Beyond his contributions to medical education, Dr. Zayzafoon is an accomplished scientist and researcher, with a focus on the molecular mechanisms of prostate cancer bone metastases. His work in preclinical drug development aims to identify novel therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, bridging the gap between scientific discovery and patient care.
As associate dean for Global Initiatives and International Medical Education, Zayzafoon remains committed to expanding UAB’s global programs, forging new partnerships, and strengthening the international impact of the Heersink School of Medicine. His leadership will further UAB’s commitment to excellence in medical education, equipping students to lead in both local and global healthcare settings.