UNC Urology is proud to announce that Marc Bjurlin, DO, MSc, FACOS, has been appointed Vice Chair of Research, a role that will further elevate the department’s research mission and commitment to advancing urologic care. Dr. Bjurlin, an Associate Professor of Urology, UNC Urology’s Director of Clinical Trials, and a Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Member, brings an exceptional track record of leadership, innovation, and patient-centered research that has already made a significant impact at UNC and beyond.
A Vision for Growth and Innovation in Urologic Research
Dr. Bjurlin steps into this role following Dr. Katherine Chan, who served as the inaugural Vice Chair of Research and helped establish a strong foundation for urologic investigation within the department. As Vice Chair, Dr. Bjurlin will focus on expanding clinical trials, fostering multidisciplinary collaborations, and securing funding opportunities to propel UNC Urology’s research forward.
His leadership in clinical trials has already positioned UNC Urology as a hub for cutting-edge research. He has played a pivotal role in bringing advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques to patients, such as transperineal prostate biopsy methods and the integration of the KOELIS MRI Fusion Biopsy System, which enhances precision in prostate cancer detection. As lead investigator for the QUILT trial, he has helped bring innovative combination therapies for bladder cancer to UNC.
“We are excited to have Dr Bjurlin take on the important role of Vice Chair of Research for the department. He has a world-renowned track record of innovation, productivity, and successful collaboration across a broad network of enterprise and is perfectly positioned to lead our efforts into this exciting next phase.”
Matthew Nielsen, MD, MS, FACS
Rhodes Distinguished Professor and Chair
UNC Chapel Hill Department of Urology
Advancing Urologic Oncology Through Research
A recognized expert in urologic oncology, Dr. Bjurlin has dedicated his career to improving outcomes for patients with bladder, prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers. He has served on national committees such as the American Urological Association’s (AUA) New Technologies & Imaging Committee, where he has led efforts to establish best practices for multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) in prostate cancer care. His research has also gained international attention, and led to invited presentations at the European Conference on Tobacco Control and the Oncological Urology Section of the Polish Urological Society in Warsaw, Poland.
Beyond his individual research contributions, Dr. Bjurlin has been instrumental in strengthening UNC’s collaborative research efforts. He was a member of a multi-institutional research team awarded an NIH R01 grant to develop tailored screening approaches for urinary system cancers in patients with chronic kidney disease. His ability to bring together experts across disciplines has been a hallmark of his career, ensuring that research findings translate into meaningful clinical applications.
A Commitment to Mentorship and Academic Excellence
In addition to his research leadership, Dr. Bjurlin is deeply committed to mentorship and education. Throughout his research portfolio, he has helped train and foster the next generation of urologic researchers—guiding medical students and residents in conducting and publishing impactful research.
Alongside Dr. Bjurlin, a team of UNC Urology researchers were selected for the prestigious AUA 2023 Annual Meeting Press Program. The team’s abstract, titled “Impact of Smoking on Longitudinal Health-Related Quality of Life Measures Among Bladder Cancer Survivors,” was chosen from nearly 3,000 submissions as one of only 25 abstracts highlighted at the event.
Dr. Bjurlin’s collaborative approach to research and clinical care has made him an invaluable resource for both trainees and colleagues, ensuring that the future of urologic research at UNC is driven by excellence, innovation, and mentorship.
Shaping the Future of Urologic Research at UNC
As Vice Chair of Research, Dr. Bjurlin will continue to strengthen UNC Urology’s reputation as a leader in academic medicine, fostering an environment where research thrives and translates into real-world improvements in patient care. His leadership will be instrumental in securing major research funding, expanding clinical trial accessibility, and guiding the department toward new discoveries that shape the future of urology.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Marc Bjurlin on this well-deserved appointment. His passion for research and commitment to advancing urologic care will undoubtedly drive innovation at UNC Urology for years to come.