Patricia Hurn, PhD, has accepted the position of Associate Vice Chancellor for Research at the University of Texas System. This change is effective March 1, 2011. “I am pleased the community of academic medicine recognizes OHSU as an institution where strong and innovative leaders are developed,” said Dean Mark Richardson. “In addition to the much deserved recognition of Patti’s talent and accomplishments, this is also a testament to OHSU’s research reputation.”

“I firmly believe that my ability to move into this new arena reflects the commitment OHSU has to growing faculty leaders, enhancing the careers of researchers and promoting women,” said Dr. Hurn. “There is so much I will miss about being at OHSU, but I also hope this may open new opportunities for partnerships between Oregon and Texas.”

Dr. Hurn is currently Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Faculty Affairs in the OHSU School of Medicine. She is also a Professor and Vice-Chair for Research in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, and holds joint appointments in the departments of Neurology and Physiology & Pharmacology. Dr. Hurn joined the OHSU School of Medicine faculty in 2003, as a Professor and Vice-Chair for research in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine. She holds joint appointments in neurology and physiology & pharmacology.  Dr. Hurn is also the founding director of the OHSU Research Center for Gender-based Medicine.

Dr. Hurn’s role within the University of Texas System will be to expand and enhance the $1.54 billion research enterprise at the system’s six health institutions. She will oversee faculty recruitment and retention, and collaborate with a newly reorganized Division of Technology Transfer and Commercialization. She will also facilitate the expansion and development of system wide programs and facilities in high performance computing.

“This is a huge honor for Patti,” said Jeffrey Kirsch, MD, Professor and Chair, Department of Anesthesiology and Periopertive Medicine.  “Although I am obviously sad to lose a great talent, I am proud of the role that our department and the School of Medicine have played in her leadership development.”

In 2007, Dr. Hurn was appointed Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Faculty Affairs by Dean Richardson. Under her leadership, the School of Medicine invigorated faculty leadership development and mentoring programs. She was committed to supporting women’s advancement, and in helping to establish the new “clinical track” category of faculty appointments.

“Patti has made important contributions to faculty and leadership development in the School of Medicine.  An indicator of her success is that there is a strong faculty group in place able to continue and build on the initiatives she helped create,” said Dean Richardson.

Before joining OHSU, Dr. Hurn was a faculty member at The Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Hurn is internationally known for her research on the role of estrogen in stroke and other neurological conditions. She is a faculty member in the Neuroscience Graduate Program, helping to educate the next generation of basic and translational scientists.  She has received many awards and honors. In 2010 she received the OHSU Faculty Senate Distinguished Faculty Award for Outstanding Collaboration.