Dr. Sharmila Anandasabapathy will be vice-president, health, at UBC.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) has appointed a globally recognized leader in translational medicine and health equity, Dr. Sharmila Anandasabapathy, as its new Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Vice-President, Health. Her term begins November 1, 2025, marking a new era in medical education and innovation at UBC.
A Visionary in Cancer Detection and Global Health
Currently based at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, Dr. Anandasabapathy is known worldwide for her groundbreaking work in cancer detection, biomedical engineering, and global health programs. At Baylor, she serves as Vice President and Senior Associate Dean for Global Programs and is a professor of gastroenterology.
Her research focuses on developing low-cost, scalable tools for early detection of gastrointestinal cancers, particularly in underserved regions. She leads numerous global clinical trials and holds four major U.S. National Institutes of Health research grants. Her work reflects UBC Health’s mission—bridging research, education, and equity in health care delivery.
Leadership That Aligns with UBC’s Global Ambitions
Dr. Benoit-Antoine Bacon, President and Vice-Chancellor of UBC, expressed strong support for the appointment: “She brings expertise and collaborative leadership that aligns perfectly with our ambitions. Her focus on innovation and health equity will strengthen UBC’s ability to drive meaningful change across B.C. and beyond.”
The selection committee, chaired by Dr. Gage Averill, also emphasized her match with UBC's values: “She embodies UBC’s commitment to translational medicine and interprofessional care. Her global healthcare delivery experience is extraordinary.”
Commitment to Innovation and Equity
In her first remarks, Dr. Anandasabapathy said, “We live in extraordinary times—with great challenges, but also unprecedented capabilities in science and medicine. UBC’s culture and global vision are inspiring. I’m honored to be part of such a dynamic academic community.”
Her leadership will focus on strengthening interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering innovation, and expanding access to medical education throughout the province. With her background in both clinical medicine and bioengineering, she is well-positioned to lead UBC Health’s transformative mission.
Bridging Clinical Practice and Community Needs
A gastroenterologist by training, Dr. Anandasabapathy is known for linking research, diagnostics, and real-world implementation.
She also oversees Baylor’s global programs, creating culturally relevant health solutions for resource-limited settings.
Her academic journey includes a BA in English Literature from Yale, an MD with Distinction in Research from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and training at prestigious institutions including Cornell, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and Mount Sinai.
Building on a Strong Legacy
Dr. Anandasabapathy will succeed Dr. Dermot Kelleher, who has served as Dean since 2015 and as Vice-President, Health since 2018. Under his leadership, UBC Health made tremendous strides—expanding training programs, driving biomedical innovation, and launching initiatives like Canada’s first School of Biomedical Engineering and the COVID-19 Clinical Research Coordination Initiative.
Dr. Kelleher also played a key role in developing the Immuno-Engineering and Biomanufacturing Hub and promoting health equity through distributed education and research across B.C.
UBC President Dr. Bacon acknowledged his impactful tenure: “Dr. Kelleher leaves behind a legacy of excellence and collaboration that has positioned UBC as a national leader in health education and research.”
UBC Faculty of Medicine: A Global Powerhouse
UBC’s Faculty of Medicine is among the top medical schools globally and holds the fifth-largest MD enrollment in North America. It has attracted over $2 billion in research funding in the last five years alone—driving innovation and economic growth across the province.
The Faculty is committed to inclusive health transformation, guided by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Its reach spans urban centers and remote communities, supported by over 24,500 faculty members, staff, and learners.
About UBC Health
UBC Health unites diverse disciplines and institutions across B.C., enabling collaborative progress in healthcare training, policy, and system improvement. Through the Office of the Vice-President, Health, it supports inclusive partnerships and fosters innovative thinking across campuses and clinical settings.
Looking Ahead
With Dr. Sharmila Anandasabapathy stepping in as the new face of UBC Health and the Faculty of Medicine, the university is set to expand its global impact. Her appointment signals a new chapter—defined by innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to transforming healthcare locally and worldwide.
