Dr. Carlos Zgheib receives Wound Healing Society honor
Carlos Zgheib, PhD, an associate professor in the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson’s Department of Surgery, Division of Pediatric Surgery, received the Mid-Career Faculty Award from the Wound Healing Society.
Carlos Zgheib, PhD
“This distinguished recognition holds profound significance to me both professionally and personally,” said Dr. Zgheib, who is also a professor of pharmacology and biomedical engineering. “It epitomizes the culmination of years of dedicated research, teaching and service in the field of wound healing. It serves as a testament to the impact and contributions I have made within the wound healing community and underscores the recognition of my peers and esteemed colleagues.”
Dr. Zgheib joined the WHS in 2012 when he was a postdoctoral fellow. “Over the years, my commitment and involvement with the society have steadily grown, allowing me to contribute to various aspects of its mission and initiatives,” he said. He has been a member of the WHS’s Awards Committee, International Relations Committee and Program Committee; he co-chaired the 2023 WHS Annual Meeting; and this year he was elected to the board of directors. “This esteemed position on the board allows me to actively contribute to the strategic decision-making processes, governance and future direction of the society, as we continue to advance wound healing research, education and patient care,” he said.
He joined UArizona in October 2022 to lead the Laboratory for Fetal and Regenerative Biology alongside Kenneth W. Liechty, MD, division chief of pediatric surgery, director of fetal medicine at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson and surgeon-in-chief of Banner Children’s at Diamond Children’s Medical Center.
Dr. Zgheib said he is grateful to have Dr. Liechty as a mentor. “Dr. Liechty has played an instrumental role in my professional development and success,” Dr. Zgheib said. “His unwavering support, guidance and counsel have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory. His mentorship has extended beyond academic pursuits, encompassing crucial advice on navigating professional challenges and fostering personal growth.”
Dr. Liechty, who is also a professor of pediatrics, surgery and obstetrics and gynecology at the College of Medicine – Tucson, said he believes Dr. Zgheib is very deserving of this award. “Throughout his career Dr. Zgheib has been committed to improving wound healing outcomes in patients through basic science investigation. He has also demonstrated leadership in the preeminent Wound Healing Society.”
Dr. Zgheib’s current research involves the development of innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at restoring normal healing in injured tissues. “Our laboratory employs a diverse array of cutting-edge methodologies, such as nanotechnology, biomaterials, microRNA therapy and small molecules, to specifically target and modulate chronic and excessive inflammation. By harnessing these strategies, we strive to address a range of inflammatory diseases, including acute lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, diabetic foot ulcers, ulcerative colitis and pressure ulcers,” he said.
The WHS was founded in 1989. Its mission is to “improve wound healing outcomes through science, professional education and communication.