Dipen J. Parekh has been appointed the inaugural Magnier Endowed Chair in Urology at the University of Miami, recognizing his significant contributions to urologic oncology and robotic surgery.
The University of Miami has appointed Dr. Dipen J. Parekh, a distinguished Indian American surgeon, as the inaugural holder of the Magnier Endowed Chair in Urology. Dr. Parekh is renowned for his expertise in robotic urologic cancer procedures, having performed over 6,000 surgeries worldwide.
Born in Mumbai, Dr. Parekh currently serves as the CEO of the University of Miami Health System. His investiture ceremony took place at Britto Palace in Miami on January 12, where he was honored for his exceptional contributions to urologic oncology, surgical innovation, and academic leadership. The event also celebrated the philanthropic vision of donor John Magnier.
During the ceremony, Dr. Joseph J. Echevarria, president and CEO of the University of Miami, praised Dr. Parekh’s leadership and commitment to advancing the field of medicine. “Dr. Parekh leads with uncommon clarity, humility, and purpose,” Echevarria stated. “This chair recognizes not only his extraordinary accomplishments but also the future he continues to build for UHealth and the communities we serve.”
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Parekh expressed gratitude to the Magnier family for their support in strengthening the institute and for their commitment to research that benefits patients globally. Echevarria also acknowledged John Magnier, the owner of Coolmore Stud, for his generosity and belief in fostering innovative leaders like Dr. Parekh.
Several prominent figures joined Echevarria on stage for the chair presentation, including Joel H. Samuels, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost, and Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer of the Miller School. Together, they placed the University of Miami medallion on Dr. Parekh, symbolizing the trust and responsibility associated with his new role.
Dr. Parekh remarked, “This honor is not mine alone. It is a tribute to the extraordinary teamwork and vision that define our University of Miami family. My heartfelt thanks go to our colleagues, mentors, donors, and friends whose support has made this milestone possible. Together, we are building a legacy of innovation, compassion, and excellence that will transform lives for generations to come.”
As a globally recognized urologic oncologist, health care innovator, and academic leader, Dr. Parekh has played a pivotal role in establishing advanced robotic surgery programs and enhancing the international reputation of the Desai Sethi Urology Institute (DSUI). Since joining the University of Miami and UHealth in 2012, he has held various leadership positions, including chair of the Department of Urology, executive dean for clinical affairs, director of robotic surgery, chief clinical officer, and chief operating officer at UHealth.
In 2025, Dr. Parekh was appointed to his current position while also serving as the holder of the Victor A. Politano Endowed Chair in Urology and as a professor of urology at the Miller School.
Dr. Parekh earned his medical degree from the University of Poona in 1990 and completed his postgraduate training in general surgery and urology at the University of Mumbai. He furthered his education with a urologic oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, residency training at Vanderbilt University, and a master’s degree from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas.
This appointment marks a significant milestone in Dr. Parekh’s career and underscores the University of Miami’s commitment to advancing medical research and education in urology.
According to a media release from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Dr. Parekh’s leadership and innovative approach will continue to shape the future of urologic care.