Welcome to the General Surgery Residency Program at the University of Texas Medical Branch, where our mission is to train confident, well-rounded surgeons through a broad depth and breadth of clinical experience, progressive responsibility, close faculty mentorship, and a strong commitment to surgical education.
Our goal is straightforward: to prepare every resident for independent general surgical practice while providing the mentorship, scholarship, and advanced training opportunities to pursue fellowship or an academic surgical career. We strive to provide residents with the experience, judgment, technical skills, and support they need to reach their full potential and pursue whatever path they choose within the field of surgery.
Since our initial accreditation in 1954, we have trained hundreds of surgeons who have gone on to successful careers in both private and academic practice. Roughly half of our graduates enter general surgical practice, while the other half pursue fellowship training in specialties including surgical oncology, critical care, pediatric surgery, colorectal surgery, vascular surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, and plastic surgery.
Our longstanding commitment to clinical excellence is complemented by opportunities for research and academic development, including NIH-sponsored T32 funding for residents interested in dedicated research. Together, these experiences allow our residents to tailor their training to their individual goals while developing the foundation necessary for lifelong success in surgery.
We are proud of our program's history, but even more excited about its future. As UTMB continues to expand its clinical programs, faculty, and educational opportunities, our commitment remains the same: to provide an environment that challenges residents, supports their development, and prepares them exceptionally well for the next stage of their careers.
Sincerely,
Richard Lu, MD, FACS
Associate Professor, Advanced GI/ General Surgery and Hernia Surgery
Program Director, General Surgery Residency Program
James E. Thompson, MD Family Distinguished Professor in Surgical Simulation