Message from the Director

One of the primary missions of our department is to advance clinical care through innovative research. Our research programs span numerous areas that touch Plastic Surgery, Oral Health and many other conditions. At the foundation of our research program is our basic science or benchtop efforts. Understanding the fundamental aspects of human disease and recovery from surgery, is central to these efforts. Our basic science research programs currently focus on the signaling mechanisms behind inflammation and disease. We also have ongoing efforts in adipose biology and regenerative medicine. Translating our findings from bench to bedside requires pre-clinical testing and ultimately enrolling patients into clinical trials. Outside the laboratory we focus on our own clinical outcomes and those published in large datasets. Managing big data requires collaborations with experts in biostatistics and data science, both of which are abundant at UVA. The environment at UVA well suited for advancing biotechnology to commercial products. We have numerous collaborations across grounds which create a unique incubator of ideas and the potential for developing life-improving medical products. There is a long history of excellence in research within the UVA Department of Plastic  Surgery. As we have grown into a more comprehensive department, so has our research efforts. Combining excellent clinical care with cutting edge research creates an exciting environment focused on improving the lives of our patients.

We have many opportunities for enthusiastic and energetic students, residents, post-bac, post-doc, and fellows to pursue. Please contact the Director of Education to learn more about participating in our research programs.

Sincerely,

Xin Li, PhD
Edlich Professor of Biomedical Research
Director of Research
Department of Plastic Surgery, Maxillofacial and Oral Health