A Message from the Interim Senior Vice President & Dean, John Sealy School of Medicine, and Chief Research Officer

Dear colleagues,

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Salim Hayek, MD, as Chair of the Department of Internal Medicine in the John Sealy School of Medicine, effective July 1. Dr. Hayek, who holds the Edward Randall and Edward Randall, Jr. Distinguished Chair in Internal Medicine, has served as interim chair since May 2024.

As a board-certified cardiologist, NIH-funded physician-scientist, and nationally recognized leader in academic medicine, Dr. Hayek brings to this position a remarkable blend of clinical insight, research excellence, and operational leadership. His work has consistently advanced innovative models of care, integrated cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence into clinical practice, and promoted transformative change across large health care systems.

Before joining UTMB last year as Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer, Dr. Hayek served at the University of Michigan as Medical Director of the Frankel Cardiovascular Center Clinics—the largest multidisciplinary cardiovascular center in the UM system—and held faculty appointments as Associate Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine and Associate Director of UM Precision Health. His research, which focuses on the mechanisms linking inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease, has produced 200 peer-reviewed publications, and earned prestigious awards from the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and others.

As Chair, Dr. Hayek will lead one of UTMB’s largest and most impactful departments, guiding it through the next phase of its evolution while supporting the university’s missions in patient care, research, education, and innovation. His experience in transforming health systems and fostering innovation will be instrumental as we continue to expand access to high-quality, patient-centered care and enhance academic excellence across all campuses. As Dr. Hayek steps into his new role as Chair, he will conclude his role as Vice President but will continue as Chief Transformation Officer until March 2026.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Hayek on this well-earned appointment and in supporting him as he transitions to this important leadership role.

Sincerely,

Antonio C. Bianco, MD, PhD
Interim Senior Vice President and Dean, John Sealy School of Medicine
Chief Research Officer
Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Distinguished Chair in Internal Medicine