UCSD - University of California - San Diego

01/22/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/22/2026 14:39

Philip A. Weissbrod Selected Chair of the Department of Otolaryngology

Published Date

January 22, 2026

Article Content

Philip A. Weissbrod, MD, professor of otolaryngology, has been selected as the inaugural chair of the Department of Otolaryngology at UC San Diego School of Medicine, effective January 1, 2026.

"Dr. Weissbrod's vision to advancing both clinical excellence, translational research and outstanding education uniquely position him to guide the department through a pivotal era of expansion as the inaugural permanent chair," said Barbara Jung, MD, associate vice chancellor and dean of UC San Diego School of Medicine. "I look forward to seeing the department flourish under his direction, strengthening our national impact by fostering a supportive, forward-looking culture for faculty, staff and trainees."

Weissbrod earned his undergraduate degree at Washington University in St. Louis and his medical degree at Stony Brook University. He went on to complete an internship in general surgery at St. Vincent's Catholic Medical Center, residency training at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai and fellowship training in laryngology at the University of Washington School of Medicine.

"Laryngology is a relatively young field," said Weissbrod. "In 2011, I was a young and ambitious fellow. I had two primary goals for my first position: I wanted to take care of complex cases and I wanted to build a program that aligned with my vision of creating a nationally recognized multidisciplinary center that focused on laryngopharyngeal disease. UC San Diego offered both opportunities, along with the chance to work within a world class academic institution in a remarkable part of the country. My wife, Carolena, initially agreed to a five-year move; 15 years later, we are still here."

Weissbrod has led transformative clinical growth in complex airway reconstruction, professional voice care, early-stage laryngeal cancer care and swallowing disorders. He is the founder and director of the Center for Airway Voice and Swallowing at UC San Diego Health. During his tenure, he has been a major contributor to the development and success of multidisciplinary programs dedicated to complex airway stenosis, cervical spine disease, and reflux and esophageal motility disorders.

"I feel fortunate to lead a department that is already highly accomplished in research and clinical care," said Weissbrod. "My goal is to elevate our collective impact through strategic recruitment, support for early-career faculty, multidisciplinary collaboration and innovation, while helping drive thoughtful clinical growth as the health system expands."

Related content

Becoming a Department


In January 2024, the Division of Otolaryngology, which had been housed in the Department of Surgery since its founding in 1972, officially became an academic department within the School of Medicine. The transition marked an important milestone in the division's growth. Over the years, the department has developed into a strong and dynamic program for patient care, education and research, supported by accomplished and internationally recognized faculty and alumni.

This transition reflects the department's maturity, stability and clear vision for continued growth. Becoming an academic department provides greater independence and resources, strengthening leadership, supporting faculty development and expanding opportunities in teaching and research - all of which will help the department build on its existing excellence in patient care, innovative research and educating academic physicians.

A dedicated educator and mentor who has trained a generation of residents and medical students now practicing across the country, Weissbrod is recognized for fostering a supportive, collaborative culture that empowers faculty, staff and trainees to grow, discover and lead. His commitment to mentorship and professional development will continue to shape the department's trajectory.

Weissbrod has a broad research portfolio and is currently collaborating with researchers at the Jacobs School of Engineering to develop minimally invasive robotic tools for endoscopic surgery, as well as novel technologies to diagnose and treat voice and swallowing disorders. His work reflects a broader vision of integrating clinical excellence with translational research, positioning UC San Diego at the forefront of innovation in otolaryngology and surgical robotics.

"I find great value and personal satisfaction in innovation and entrepreneurship. Originating from work that began at UC San Diego, my cofounder, Michael Yip, PhD, professor of electrical and computer engineering, and I started Channel Robotics. We are currently working toward FDA approval on our first device," said Weissbrod. "I am excited to apply what I have learned through this process of commercialization to help others translate innovative work on campus into viable companies that elevate care, improve outcomes and highlight the extraordinary environment and talent at UC San Diego."

Philip Weissbrod and his family

Last year, Weissbrod was named a finalist for the Chancellor's Innovation Awards which honor the ingenuity of researchers and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future through groundbreaking discoveries. Similarly, in 2024, he was awarded Faculty Innovator of the Year by the Institute for the Global Entrepreneur. Additionally, he has several patents related to AI-powered robotic systems, steerable catheters and endoscopic devices.

Outside of his professional role, Weissbrod and his wife have two daughters, Izzy and Nina, along with two dogs, Oso and Teddy. The family lives in Encinitas. He is an avid skier, vinyl collector and loves to cook in his free time.

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