We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Waqqas Afif as McGill and MUHC Division Director of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, effective April 1, 2025. Dr. Afif, an accomplished clinician, educator, and researcher, brings a wealth of expertise in Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Gastroenterology.
Dr. Afif earned his M.D.C.M. from McGill University, followed by residency training in Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology. He further specialized in IBD through a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) and obtained a Master of Science in Epidemiology at McGill. He has been a faculty member at McGill since 2009, progressing to Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine in 2017. His leadership roles include Site Director for Gastroenterology at the Montreal General Hospital, Co-Director of the Multidisciplinary Eosinophilic Esophagitis Clinic, and Director of the Clinical Trials Unit at the McGill IBD Centre.
As an internationally recognized researcher, Dr. Afif has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and led numerous clinical trials focusing on optimizing biologic therapies for IBD. His contributions to advancing patient care and education have been recognized through multiple awards, including the Michael Lichter Teacher of the Year Award in 2024. A dedicated mentor, he has played a pivotal role in the training of medical students, residents, and fellows, previously serving as Chair of the Gastroenterology Competence Committee at McGill.
With his extensive experience in clinical innovation, research, and medical education, Dr. Afif is poised to lead the Division of Gastroenterology at McGill and MUHC to new heights. His vision prioritizes excellence in patient care, cutting-edge research, and the continued development of the next generation of gastroenterologists.
Dr. Afif succeeds Dr. Alain Bitton, who has led the division for more than 15 years. We are deeply grateful for Dr. Bitton’s outstanding leadership and the many contributions he has made as Director of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. His dedication, vision, and commitment have played a pivotal role in advancing the division’s mission, fostering excellence in patient care, research, and education. We are grateful for his remarkable achievements and the lasting impact he has made.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Afif on this well-deserved appointment.
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