The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) has recognized the achievements of a leading North American based head and neck cancer surgeon at a diploma ceremony held at the 500-year-old Edinburgh College.

Currently the Chief of Head and Neck Service at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, as well as Chair of the Council of the International Academy of Oral Oncology (IAOO), Professor Jatin Shah is to receive the Honorary Fellowship from the RCSEd’s Faculty of Dental Surgery in recognition of the contribution he has made to medicine, particularly in the field of oral oncology.

Having received medical training in Baroda, India, Professor Shah undertook a research fellowship in Philadelphia, USA before moving in New York and undertaking a series of research and senior surgical positions, including most recently being appointed to the position of Professor of Surgery at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York. In addition, he has over 400 peer reviewed publications to his name as well as Honorary Fellowships from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, England and Australia.

Explaining more about Professor Shah’s nomination to receive the RCSEd Honorary Fellowship in Dental Surgery, Dean of the RCSEd Dental Faculty, Professor Richard Ibbetson said:

“Professor Shah is one of the most distinguished and leading figures worldwide in the field of oral oncology. His significant contribution to healthcare and education, particularly in the field of oral cancer, worldwide, deserves to be duly recognised and I am delighted to welcome him to Edinburgh to be awarded the Honorary FDS of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.”

Established in 1505, and with a worldwide membership, The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is one of the world’s oldest and largest surgical establishments dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and advancement in surgical and dental practice, through its activities in education, training and examinations.

At the diploma ceremony, Professor Shah will join surgeons and dental professionals from around the globe who will travel to Edinburgh to receive Fellowship and Membership diplomas in recognition of their success in achieving the required standards of the rigorous dental and surgical examinations.

Commenting on receiving his RCSEd Faculty of Dental Surgery Honorary Fellowship from the College, Professor Shah said:

“I am deeply humbled and sincerely grateful to the RCSEd for bestowing this distinguished honour upon me.