UAB Department of Surgery Endocrine Surgery Fellow Andrea Gillis, M.D., was one of only 12 in the nation selected for the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Early-Stage Surgeon Scientist Program (ESSP).

As a member of the 2022 cohort, Gillis will receive three years of funding for her research and training.

“I am looking forward to conducting impactful endocrine surgery research here at UAB as a new faculty member,” said Gillis. “This program is a wonderful opportunity to develop as a surgeon scientist who prioritizes both clinical and research duties. My goal is to apply all that I learn to improve care for local patients in Birmingham and beyond.”

According to the NCI, the program is designed to train surgeon scientists and retain them in cancer research by supporting a program focused on cancer-related disease and basic/translational research. It aims to bring together surgeon scientists from across the U.S. and build cohorts that will be trained together.

Program Director of the UAB Endocrine Surgery Fellowship Brenessa Lindeman, M.D., MEHP, FACS, notes the high distinction acceptance into this program brings with it.

“We wish huge congratulations to Dr. Gillis as this is a highly-competitive program,” said Lindeman. “We are not surprised by her acceptance and know that she will flourish in this program as she solidifies her early career as a surgeon scientist.”