I am a urologist who specializes in taking care of patients with genitourinary cancers and runs a translational research lab. With the various treatment options available for patients with urologic cancers, I enjoy working with patients to identify the treatment choice that optimizes both their cancer outcome and personal goals. My research focuses on using genomic analysis of bladder and kidney tumors to learn more about alterations in the tumor and surrounding cells to improve treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
Specialties
Publications
Education
Fellowship: Urologic Oncology, Department of Urology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 2021-2023
Residency: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 2016-2021
MD: University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 2008-2016
Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Gessner
UNC Urology Medical Center Office
UNC Urology NC Cancer Hospital Office
UNC Urology at Hillsborough
Refer a Patient to Dr. Gessner
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News
2 weeks ago
A Broad Presence on the National Stage: UNC Urology at AUA 2026
As colleagues gather in Washington this spring, attendees moving from session to session will encounter a consistent presence from UNC Urology. Their participation across the 2026 AUA Annual Meeting reflects the ongoing work taking place within our department – work that spans clinical care, research, and education and connects UNC Urology to the broader national community of physicians and scientists advancing the field.
3 weeks ago
Dr. Kathryn Gessner Selected for AUA Early-Career Investigators Showcase at 2026 Annual Meeting
Dr. Kathryn Gessner has been selected to present her research at the 2026 Early-Career Investigators Showcase (ECIS) during the American Urological Association (AUA) Annual Meeting in Washington, DC. Dr. Gessner will present a poster titled “Spatial profiling of plasmacytoid urothelial carcinoma reveals therapeutic vulnerabilities,” during the ECIS session on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 3:30–5:30 PM ET.
