We are delighted to announce that Dr. Chirag Desai, MD, FACS has been appointed as the George F. Sheldon, MD Professor in the Department of Surgery. This distinguished honor, approved by the UNC Board of Trustees, recognizes Dr. Desai’s exceptional contributions to surgical innovation, leadership, and patient care.
A renowned expert in complex liver and pancreatic surgeries, Dr. Desai serves as the Surgical Director of the Liver Transplant Program and leads UNC’s Chronic Pancreatitis & Autologous-Islet Cell Transplant Program—the only program of its kind in North Carolina. His pioneering work in liver transplantation (adult, pediatric, and split liver) and advanced pancreatic resections has transformed patient outcomes, while his dedication to surgical education and research continues to shape the future of transplant medicine.
The George F. Sheldon, MD Distinguished Professorship, established in 2018, honors the legacy of Dr. George Sheldon, a trailblazing surgeon and leader, one of only 20 people to serve as president of all major U.S. surgical organizations, including the American College of Surgeons, the American Surgical Association, and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma. Generously supported by Dr. Sheldon’s family, colleagues, and friends, this professorship ensures the recruitment and retention of visionary surgeon leaders at UNC while advancing groundbreaking research and clinical excellence.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Chirag Desai on this well-deserved recognition—a testament to his unwavering commitment to surgical innovation, education, and the enduring legacy of Dr. George Sheldon.