Research Overview

The Department of Urologic Surgery is dedicated to advancing the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of urological diseases to improve patient care. Our department hosts one of the nation’s largest and most comprehensive urologic research programs, encompassing six laboratories supported by millions of dollars in competitive research funding. 

Our largest research program is in urologic oncology, which focuses on prostate and bladder cancer. A number of investigators in the department focus on research in these diseases; specifically, mechanisms signaling the androgen receptor to activate prostate cancer growth and progression following castration.

Another important focus of research in the department is in pediatric urology, where our faculty and staff are studying adult and embryonic stem cells and manipulating cell growth for tissue engineering.

Learn more about our faculty's basic and translational research »

Urologic Oncology

Urologic oncology clinical trials are coordinated through the Comprehensive Cancer Center's Clinical Trials Support Unit and cover all aspects of urological cancer. Several laparoscopic procedures are being performed as part of clinical trials to evaluate their usefulness in treating urological diseases.

Endourology

Endourology clinical studies are looking at ways to prevent renal stone formation and to understand the pressure changes that occur during percutaneous stone removal.

Female Incontinence

The department has long been involved in clinical research on female incontinence. One of our recent studies compared the effectiveness of transvaginal tape (TVT) and traditional slings in treating female incontinence issues. 

Pediatric Urology

Our pediatric urology research focuses on quality-of-life measures, clinical outcomes and the application of minimally invasive surgical approaches. 

Male Infertility and Sexual Dysfunction

Our male infertility and sexual dysfunction research aims to provide a holistic, couple-centered approach to the treatment of sexual problems.

During their PGY5 year, all residents have four months dedicated to research. They may select a mentor, develop an independent project or join an existing study. The research rotation is designed to provide hands-on experience, foster critical evaluation of scientific literature and cultivate scholarly productivity. Historically, residents have produced four to 10 manuscripts during this time, an experience that contributes to the high rate of graduates securing competitive fellowship positions.