About Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery

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Longstanding Leaders of Head & Neck Surgery

Since 1904, the U-M Medical School Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery has led the nation in excellence and innovation as pioneers in the field.

Reaching for a Vision, Rooted in Tradition

We are proud to continue our long standing tradition of excellence and innovation in diagnosing, treating and rehabilitating ear, nose, throat, head and neck conditions. That includes a strong commitment to training the next generation of innovators, with opportunities for medical students of all levels and one of the most sought-after resident training programs in the country. As a research leader, our contributions span the entire field of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery with focus on head and neck cancer, health services, neurolaryngology and hearing. Our world-renowned Kresge Hearing Research Institute consists of a diverse, dedicated group of scientists and physicians working on basic and translational research related to hearing and balance.

Our Vision

The Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Michigan Medicine School will be the global leader in providing exemplary clinical care, training the next generation of leaders in the field and shaping the future of research and patient care in otolaryngology.

Our Mission

The mission of the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery is to be the recognized leader in clinical care, education and scientific discovery. We seek sustainable excellence as:

  • Providers of world-class, compassionate and patient-centered care within a sophisticated multidisciplinary clinical delivery system
  • Great and innovative educators of students, residents, fellows and our professional colleagues such that we are the most sought-after training program in the country and trainers of the next generation of leaders and scientists in the field
  • Creators of knowledge that makes a difference in the lives of our patients
  • Responsible and innovative stewards of philanthropic, institutional and extramural resources
  • Leaders who enhance employee engagement, job satisfaction and career development for all members of the department and healthcare team
  • Exemplary role models for our students, trainees and colleagues
  • Developers of a business model with a strategic focus that assures long-lasting financial stability
  • Champions of a culture and climate that promotes health equity and belonging.

History

Journey through the years and explore the department’s evolution since our 1904 founding.

Leadership

An extensive network of leadership, united by teamwork, makes it possible for us to achieve our mission and move closer toward our collective vision.

Giving

Your private support is the financial backbone of our ground-breaking discoveries and lifesaving clinical applications.

Events

Search for upcoming lectures, seminars, social gatherings and more.

Featured News & Stories

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Health Lab

‘Molecular glue’ stabilizes protein that inhibits development of non-small cell lung cancer and uterine cancer

University of Michigan researchers found a new protein target PP2A and developed a drug to treat non-small cell lung cancers that have KRAS mutations.
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Health Lab

Rural-urban disparities in head and neck cancer

In a new paper in Oral Oncology, University of Michigan Health researchers found that patients with head and neck cancer who live in rural areas have a higher mortality rate compared to those living in urban areas.
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Department News

Yunlu Zhu Appointed Terry and Shelley Barr Research Professor

During a ceremony on Sept. 23, 2026, Yunlu Zhu, PhD, was appointed the Terry and Shelley Barr Research Professor.
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Research News

Announcing the Inaugural Andrea Fischer Newman and Frank Newman Research Scholar Award

Announcing the inaugural Andrea Fischer Newman and Frank Newman Research Scholar Award
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Health Lab

Biomarkers aid cost-benefit analysis of head and neck cancer immunotherapy

The cost-effectiveness of the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab for patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may depend on biomarker results, according to a new study by Michigan Medicine.
Podcast: Supporting Student Success: Building Well-Being into Medical Education
Medical School News

Podcast: Supporting student success: Building well-being into medical education

In the latest episode of the Well-Being at Michigan Medicine podcast, host and Chief Well-Being Officer Elizabeth Harry, M.D., is joined by Seetha Monrad, M.D., Associate Dean for Medical Student Education, and Erin McKean, M.D., Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, to discuss how Michigan Medicine is creating a learning environment where students can succeed without compromising high standards.