Cyrus Desouza, M.D., has been named chief of the University of Nebraska Medical Center Department of Internal Medicine’s Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism. Dr. Desouza is an associate professor for UNMC and director of the Diabetes and Obesity program for the Omaha VA Medical Center. The appointment was effective April 1.
“We’ve always strived to give the best level of care available to our patients,” Dr. Desouza said. “We hope to continue to gain national prominence in patient care, research and education and allow our patients the opportunity to participate in important national diabetes and endocrinology research studies that have widespread implications in the future treatment of these conditions.”
Dr. Desouza also serves as director of UNMC’s Endocrinology Fellowship Program. In addition, he has had a national leadership role in the VA MOVE obesity program and has been the site director for three National Institutes of Health-funded multicenter clinical trials.
His primary research interest is understanding the impact of diabetes and metabolic syndrome on the molecular mechanisms of vascular injury and endothelial function.
“There has never been a more crucial time in addressing diseases and conditions of the endocrine system, particularly diabetes,” said Lyn Klassen, M.D., chair of the UNMC Department of Internal Medicine. “An outstanding clinician and researcher, Dr. Desouza will lead a department of eight faculty and three scientists to further develop the enhanced clinical and research programs in the division.”
Dr. Desouza, who was recruited to UNMC from Tulane University in 2002, succeeds Jennifer Larsen, M.D., who recently was appointed associate vice chancellor for clinical research. She led the division since 1997.
Through world-class research and patient care, UNMC generates breakthroughs that make life better for people throughout Nebraska and beyond. Its education programs train more health professionals than any other institution in the state. Learn more at unmc.edu.