Claudius Conrad Appointed Phyllis M. Wise Professor of Innovation

Claudius Conrad has been named the inaugural Phyllis M. Wise Professor of Medicine and Innovation at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, a prestigious position that acknowledges his significant contributions as a leading surgical oncologist and medical innovator. This appointment, made in March 2024, honors former University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Phyllis Wise, who was instrumental in establishing the world’s first engineering-based medical college.

Dr. Conrad serves as the Associate Dean for Research and Innovation at Carle Illinois and is a tenured full professor. His expertise lies in minimally invasive hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) cancer surgery. Since joining the college, he has also directed the Cancer Scholars for Translational and Applied Research (CSTAR) Program at the Cancer Center at Illinois and taken on the role of Medical Director of Surgical Strategy and Innovation for Carle Health.

Innovative Research Focus

Dr. Conrad’s research program explores cancer biology, cancer prognostication, and the intersection of music and clinical medicine—an area he co-founded. His academic background includes dual PhDs in Cell Biology and Music Philosophy. Notably, he aims to improve surgical outcomes through innovative technologies, including a collaboration with FujiFilm. This project leverages FujiFilm’s advanced “Vincent” technology to enhance surgical planning and execution by integrating advanced visualization and artificial intelligence (AI) into surgical procedures.

With this cutting-edge approach, Dr. Conrad seeks to revolutionize how surgeons operate on tumors in the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts. His extensive experience includes prior roles at Harvard Medical School, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Tufts University, and Boston University.

Significance of the Professorship

The professorship named after Phyllis Wise is funded by a generous gift from donors Jane Hays and her late husband Dave Downey. It represents a critical investment in the advancement of medical education and research at Carle Illinois College of Medicine. Dean Mark Cohen presented Dr. Conrad with a medal during the investiture ceremony, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Dr. Conrad is a recognized leader in the field of surgical oncology, particularly in minimally invasive procedures that tackle complex cases that many other specialists may decline. His dedication to improving patient outcomes through innovation and research positions him as a vital asset to the Carle Illinois College of Medicine and the broader medical community.

For more information about Dr. Claudius Conrad, visit his professional website.