Zong-Ming Li named 2024 Orthopaedic Research Society Fellow

Zong-Ming Li, PhD, associate director of the University of Arizona Arthritis Center and professor of orthopaedic surgery in the UArizona College of Medicine – Tucson, has been named a Fellow of the Orthopaedic Research Society, one of the group’s highest honors.

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“This is a well-deserved recognition of Dr. Li’s outstanding contributions as a scientist to biomechanics and orthopaedic research,” said C. Kent Kwoh, MD, professor of medicine and director of the UArizona Arthritis Center. “He is a valued member of the Arthritis Center and a leader in the field of orthopaedic research. This honor further emphasizes the impact of his dedication to the field and his tireless efforts to advance scientific research.” 

For seven decades, the Orthopaedic Research Society has been a leading research organization supporting engineers, biologists, clinicians, orthopaedic surgeons and other professionals engaged in musculoskeletal research globally. Society fellows are esteemed members acknowledged for their exemplary service, leadership, substantial achievements, expert knowledge and significant contributions to the organization and the broader field of musculoskeletal research. These fellows are considered thought leaders and experts in their respective disciplines.

“I appreciate the ORS, a flagship society in our profession, for recognizing me and granting me the status of fellow,” said Li, who is also a member of the BIO5 Institute and holds the William and Sylvia Rubin Endowed Chair in Orthopaedic Research. “I look forward to continuing to contribute and making a positive impact in research and translation for some of the orthopaedic conditions.”

The fellowship adds to Li’s list of accolades, which include fellowships in the American Institute of Medical and Biological Engineering, the American Society of Biomechanics, the Asia-Pacific Artificial Intelligence Association, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineering. Li was the recipient of the 2022 American Society of Mechanical Engineering Savio L-Y Woo Translational Biomechanics Medal.

“The rigor of Dr. Li’s work — combined with the clarity of his contributions — has changed the way we think about such common conditions as compression neuropathy and arthritis,” said John C. Elfar, MD, chair of the College of Medicine – Tucson’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “These contributions stand to change the way we treat and understand some of the most common afflictions in humans. We are lucky to have Dr. Li as an esteemed tenured professor and the Orthopaedic Research Society is well-founded in recognizing his outstanding research.” 

Li also serves as a professor of biomedical engineering, vice chair for research in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, director of the Hand Research Laboratory and director of the Robert G. Volz, MD, Orthopaedic Research Laboratories.