Description
Position Title:
Director, Advanced Heart Failure Program
Institution: University of Rochester Medical Center – Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology
The University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) is seeking a nationally recognized leader in advanced heart failure and transplant cardiology to serve as Director of the Advanced Heart Failure Program, within the Division of Cardiology. This is a unique opportunity to lead and grow one of the most comprehensive advanced heart failure programs in the nation and make a meaningful impact on clinical care, research, and education.
Position Overview:
The successful candidate will join a vibrant, collaborative, and highly accomplished academic team and report directly to the Chief of Cardiology. As Director of Advanced Heart Transplantation, the appointee will work closely with our Surgical Directors of Heart Failure, Heart Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support and with the Medical Director of Heart Transplantation and the Medical Director of Ventricular Assist Devices. Academic appointment at the rank of Associate Professor or Professor is available, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Program Highlights:
Heart Transplantation: ~20 transplants/year (over 375 total), including heart-kidney transplants, with ongoing innovation including DCD NRP protocols and heart preservation systems.
LVAD Program: Among the largest in the U.S., with 65-85 implants/year and over 1,000 durable implants to date; with nearly 280 patients currently supported.
Surgical Team: Three full-time cardiothoracic surgeons perform heart transplant and LVAD surgeries.
Clinical Infrastructure: Includes 9.2 AHFT cardiologists, 12 outpatient APPs, dedicated transplant RNs, and robust QI, regulatory, and data management teams.
Research Excellence: Strong support from the Clinical Cardiovascular Research Center, the Clinical & Translational Science Institute, and the Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead a comprehensive advanced heart failure and transplant program in partnership with surgical, critical care, and multidisciplinary teams.
Direct clinical operations across inpatient and outpatient settings, including heart transplantation and mechanical circulatory support (e.g., VADs).
Oversee and enhance quality improvement initiatives, clinical protocols, and regulatory compliance.
Expand and mentor a team of dedicated cardiologists and advanced practice providers.
Grow the ACGME-accredited Advanced Heart Failure Fellowship program.
Advance clinical, translational, or outcomes-based research.
Support collaboration across specialties including congenital heart disease and pulmonary hypertension.
Contribute to education and mentorship of trainees and medical students.
Division and Facilities:
The Division of Cardiology includes over 70 faculty members with expertise in general cardiology, electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, imaging, heart failure, cardio-oncology, women's heart health, and more. The division supports four fellowship programs and is home to a new, dedicated 22-bed Cardiac ICU and a 23-bed Advanced Heart Failure Unit. A state-of-the-art cardiovascular tower is under construction and set to open in 2026.
Living in Rochester:
Rochester, NY is a vibrant, affordable city known for its cultural richness and natural beauty. It offers nationally ranked schools, renowned music and arts institutions (e.g., Eastman School of Music), and year-round recreational opportunities on Lake Ontario and in the Finger Lakes region. It holds a deep legacy in civil rights and women's suffrage history and offers a welcoming, family-friendly environment.
Application Information:
Interested individuals should contact Dr. Leway Chen at Leway_Chen@urmc.rochester.edu and submit a current Curriculum Vitae.
Diversity & Inclusion:
The University of Rochester is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our institution’s performance and community impact. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are responsive to the needs of dual-career couples.
Requirements
Qualifications:
MD or DO; Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Advanced Heart Failure and Transplant Cardiology.
Completion of accredited Internal Medicine, Cardiology, and Advanced HF/Transplant training programs.
Eligible for unrestricted New York State medical license and DEA registration.
Minimum of 5 years of clinical and leadership experience in advanced heart failure and transplantation.
Proven leadership acumen with strong communication, organizational, and academic skills.
Interest in Adults with Congenital Heart Disease or Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension is welcomed.
Compensation & Academic Appointment:
Academic rank and salary are commensurate with experience.
Comprehensive benefits include:
Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
Generous retirement plans and life/disability insurance.
Paid time off, parental leave, and holiday schedule.
Tuition benefits for employees and dependents.
Professional development and wellness programs.
