Zachary Lum , assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery at UC Davis Health, has been selected as one of four surgeons worldwide to receive the 2026 Hip Society Rothman-Ranawat Traveling Fellowship. The honor is among the most selective international distinctions in hip surgery and marks a significant milestone in Lum’s career.

Established in 2013, the fellowship honors pioneers in arthroplasty Richard H. Rothman, and Chitranjan S. Ranawat. Each year, four orthopaedic surgeons are selected through a competitive process that recognizes excellence in clinical care, scholarship and leadership.

During the four- to five-week program, fellows visit leading surgical centers across North America, gaining exposure to advanced operative techniques, research innovation, education and collaborative exchange. Since its inception, the fellowship has developed a global network of surgeons, many of whom have gone on to academic and leadership roles. Lum’s participation is expected to bring new perspectives to UC Davis Health and further strengthen its academic orthopaedic mission.

In addition to his clinical work, Lum is widely recognized for his leadership in wellness, inclusion and professional service. He serves as chief wellness officer in the department and chair of the AAHKS Diversity Advisory Board. Lum is also North America director for the International Orthopaedic Diversity Alliance and a member of the AAOS Knee Program Committee.

“We celebrate Dr. Lum’s selection in so many ways,” said Department Chair R. Lor Randall. “He embodies much of what we hold dear as a department. He is an outstanding surgeon and care provider, a highly engaged and productive scholar and a collaborative colleague. Just as importantly, he is a kind and thoughtful person who looks out for others while modeling the way.”