The University of New Mexico is seeking an innovative, visionary, and dynamic leader to serve as the next Division Chief of Surgical Oncology. Reporting to the Chair of Surgery, the Division Chief of Surgical Oncology provides strategic leadership for the clinical, educational, and research missions of the Division of Surgical Oncology and plays a key leadership role in the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center.
The University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH) and the UNM School of Medicine are the primary provider of tertiary and quaternary care in New Mexico, serving a population of over 2 million people. The Division of Surgical Oncology is the states primary referral center for the full breadth of surgical oncology, including melanoma, sarcoma, HIPEC, breast cancer, gastrointestinal, and hepatopancreaticobiliary tumors at an NCI designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, supporting a CGSO fellowship.
This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a robust academic division of talented and dedicated fellowship-trained oncologic surgeons within a mission-focused institution that is nationally recognized for its commitment to health equity, education, and groundbreaking clinical research.
The UNM Health Science Center (UNM-HSC) is one of only 57 National Cancer Institute (NCI) designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers. UNM is also a recipient of the National Institute of Health (NIH) sponsored Clinical Translational Science Center Award, which accelerates laboratory discoveries into clinical treatments. The Department of Surgery features a vibrant teaching environment, including a well-established general surgery residency program that graduates 7 chief residents a year, an accredited complex general oncology fellowship since 2020, and medical students, all of whom rotate through the division of surgical oncology, which has historically been recognized as an exceptionally valuable educational opportunity through multiple teaching awards from learners at all levels.
Responsibilities of the Division Chief Position:
The Division Chief will work with a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, gastroenterologists, pathologists, radiologists, oncologists, APPs, and other physicians involved in care of patients with the full spectrum of malignant conditions, with the aim of providing state-of-the-art, high-quality care to patients.
Facilities and Resources:
Outpatient services are based at the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center, a state-of-the-art facility with beautiful clinic spaces and ample resources for patient care and clinical research. The University of New Mexico Hospital serves as the principal in-patient facility. A new state-of-the-art in-patient tower opened in October 2025. This modern facility includes intensive care units, emergency medical services, and brand new 18 operating suits with 2 additional hybrid rooms.
Location:
Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a culturally diverse and naturally beautiful metropolitan area. Featuring excellent year-round weather and easy access to the outdoors, the Sandia Mountain wilderness is 20 minutes from UNM, with plentiful opportunities for hiking, skiing, and many other pursuits. Albuquerque is an incredible area for outdoor enthusiasts. There is a vibrant food and arts scene extending to Santa Fe, only one hour drive away, with a world-class opera house and art galleries. The culture of New Mexico is inextricably intertwined with our Native American heritage, including 19 pueblos, each with their own distinct culture and history.
Why work at UNM?
For firsthand information on why UNM is a great place to work and learn, visit UNM Proud to hear directly from University employees, faculty, students, and alumni. In addition to all the University has to offer, you have the added benefit of living in New Mexico, a land rich with art, history, culture, and outdoor activities, all with a very affordable cost of living. For more about life in New Mexico, visit NewMexicoTrue. Women, minorities, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Positions
UNM has a number of positions available for staff, faculty, and student employees in various academic fields and levels of experience. Everyone hired into the UNM community serves a vital role in supporting our mission. We’re here to educate and encourage students to develop the values, habits of mind, knowledge, and skills that they need to be enlightened citizens, contribute to the state and national economies, and lead satisfying lives.