Stanford Surgery Strengthens Academic and Research Collaboration in Montréal

A Stanford Surgery delegation traveled to Montréal last week to advance a growing collaboration with the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM) and the Université de Montréal’s surgical and medical research programs. The visit focused on expanding joint clinical innovation, research exchange, and future opportunities for trainee engagement between the two institutions.

The team met with leadership at CHUM—one of Canada’s leading academic medical centers—where discussions centered on shared priorities in surgical excellence, research, quality improvement, and long-term program development.

As part of the visit, Stanford also engaged with HEC Montréal, which recently became the only Canadian university to have signed a partnership with Stanford University through the International Honors Program. The collaboration will welcome HEC students to Stanford for an 8-week experience beginning in June 2026, further strengthening cross-border academic exchange and leadership development in health management and innovation.

The collaboration was initiated by Amin Etemad, MBA, quality programs manager for the Department of Surgery. Etemad is an HEC Montréal alumnus and current expat ambassador.

"I'm committed to strengthening HEC’s medical management hub—with Stanford’s expertise and partnership—to foster leadership in health systems innovation," said Etemad.

Joining Etemad in this effort are Dr. Lisa Knowlton, an associate professor of surgery, acute care surgeon, and associate chair of research for Stanford's Department of Surgery, whose clinical practice spans trauma, emergency surgery and Directorship of the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. The Stanford team was hosted by Dr. Fred Saad, CHUM’s Professor and Chair, who is an internationally recognized leader in urologic oncology and translational research.

"Dr. Saad's vision and support have been instrumental in shaping this initiative," said Etemad. "We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Dr. Saad for his partnership and commitment to advancing this collaboration."

This trip marks an important step in building a sustainable ecosystem of collaboration between Stanford Surgery, CHUM, and Université de Montréal—uniting clinical expertise, research excellence, and educational opportunity across two world-class institutions. Stanford Surgery looks forward to continued partnership and the promising joint initiatives now underway.

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About Stanford Surgery

The Stanford University Department of Surgery is dedicated to inventing the future of surgical care through:

• pioneering cutting-edge research, 
• developing the next generation of leaders, and 
• healing through incomparable surgical skills and compassion. 

To learn more, please visit surgery.stanford.edu