Yana Zavros, a prominent gastric cancer researcher, has been named the University of Georgia’s inaugural Georgia Research Alliance (GRA) Eminent Scholar in Molecular Medicine. Zavros becomes UGA’s 18th current GRA Eminent Scholar and will lead research efforts at the new UGA School of Medicine, focusing on translational science and faculty recruitment.
“Dr. Zavros will be a driving force behind our medical research enterprise, helping to establish a robust, interdisciplinary research center,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead.
Zavros, known for her pioneering work with organoid-based technologies and personalized cancer treatments, will develop a center connecting biomedical research with clinical applications. Her research also extends to Cushing’s disease, driven by her personal experience with the condition, with a focus on improving diagnostic and treatment approaches.
Her team recently secured a $14 million NIH grant to support Cushing’s research, exemplifying UGA’s Precision One Health Initiative by addressing both human and canine health challenges.
“Dr. Zavros’ expertise and leadership will position UGA as a national leader in translational biomedical research,” said Tim Denning, GRA president and CEO.
Zavros will serve as a professor of interdisciplinary biomedical sciences, building partnerships across UGA’s colleges and beyond to drive impactful scientific discoveries.