50 Most Influential Physician Executives – 2016
Rank: 36
Victor Dzau
President, National Academy of Medicine
In a career devoted to cardiac research and innovation, Dr. Victor Dzau, 69, brings extensive leadership experience to his role as president of the National Academy of Medicine, formerly called the Institute of Medicine. A nationally recognized source for health policy, Dzau was appointed in June 2014 to lead the organization that provides independent advice on pressing health concerns to the global community. Before beginning his six-year term, Dzau was chancellor for health affairs at Duke University and CEO of Duke University Health System for nearly 10 years. Throughout his tenure, Dzau led the establishment of several institutions at Duke, including the Duke Cancer Institute. He has also received awards and accolades for his research in cardiovascular disease and genetics. Among his accomplishments, Dzau pioneered gene therapy for vascular disease and provided vital understanding of the renin-angiotensin system in cardiovascular disease.