Navigating Institutional and Society Leadership Opportunities

In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Aditya Bagrodia interviews urologist Dr. Jay Shah, leader of urologic oncology at the Stanford Cancer Center, about seizing leadership opportunities in the world of academic medicine.

First, the doctors discuss the importance of finding a niche for their medical practice and research. Dr. Shah encourages young faculty members to identify a specific interest within their field and start research related to that topic. Although it was hard for him to prioritize his niche at first, he realized that gaining knowledge in quality improvement, his chosen niche, was much easier when he merged both his clinical and academic work.

Then, Dr. Shah and Dr. Bagrodia discuss the challenges of a mid-career change. Dr. Shah moved from MD Anderson to Stanford, while Dr. Bagrodia moved from UT Southwestern to UC San Diego. Both doctors agreed that changing institutional cultures and practices can be daunting; however, they noted that it was important to build credibility and to keep an open mind about listening to the ideas of their new colleagues. Dr. Shah believes that new faculty may take up to four years at their new institution before they start to feel comfortable in their new position. Dr. Bagrodia then warns against having unrealistic nostalgia for old institutions.

Finally, the doctors suggest ways to build leadership skills and gain leadership experience within the field of urology. Both doctors found leadership courses and having an executive leadership coach helpful. They also encourage young urologists to get involved in committees of urological societies, including the American Urological Association.