Dr. Zhi Q. Yao named Paul Dishner Chair of Excellence in Medicine at East Tennessee State University
Dr. Yao has been named for his commitment to enhancing research in the Quillen College of Medicine.
Dr. Zhi Q. Yao wears many hats at East Tennessee State University. He is the director of the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center’s HIV and Hepatitis Program, division chief of research, and the director of the Center of Excellence in HIV/AIDS in the Quillen College of Medicine. Now, fulfilling a goal he set for himself, he has been named the Paul Dishner Chair of Excellence in Medicine.
According to an article on East Tennessee State University’s website, Dr. Yao said of the honor, “Being named the Dishner Chair of Excellence was my main career goal before I retired, as it gives me the opportunity to help live out the mission of ETSU of helping improve the quality of life for the people of our area and beyond.”
The title of Dishner Chair of Excellence in Medicine has been awarded since 1989 to those who advance research efforts at ETSU. Dr. Yao has done this in many ways throughout his two decades at East Tennessee State University. He has published more than 100 peer-reviewed studies, won numerous grants for the school which have brought in more than $10 million, including a COVID-19 research grant, and in 2012 won the Distinguished Faculty Award for Research. Dr. Yao earned his medical degree in 1985 and in 1991 earned his PhD in infectious diseases.
Dr. Bill Block, who serves as the dean of the Quillen College of Medicine and the vice president for Clinical Affairs, praised Dr. Yao, saying, “Dr. Yao brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, having enjoyed an extensive history of successful research at ETSU.”
For more information about East Tennessee State University, visit the school’s website.