Sandler to receive 2006 Masters Award for Sustained Achievement in Digestive Sciences

March 1, 2006

Sandler to receive 2006 Masters Award for Sustained Achievement in Digestive Sciences

CHAPEL HILL -- Dr. Robert S. Sandler, chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology in UNC's School of Medicine, has been selected to receive the 2006 Masters Award for Sustained Achievement in Digestive Sciences.

The award recognizes scientists and physicians who have made significant and sustained contributions to gastrointestinal disease research and who have been academic leaders, as well. The award is given by the Masters Awards Advisory Board, which consists of nine senior scientists and physicians, in cooperation with the American Gastroenterological Association.

Sandler will receive the award on May 22, during the association's annual Digestive Disease Week conference in Los Angeles. During the same conference, Sandler will officially become vice president of the AGA.

Sandler, who joined the UNC faculty in 1981, also is Nina C. and John T. Sessions distinguished professor in UNC's School of Medicine and professor of epidemiology in the School of Public Health. He is associate editor of Gastroenterology, the leading peer-reviewed journal in the field.

The American Gastroenterological Association is the largest and most prestigious professional organization in gastroenterology. Founded in 1897, the association is the oldest medical-specialty society nationwide, and its more than 14,500 members include physicians and scientists who research, diagnose and treat disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and liver.

UNC School of Medicine contact: Stephanie Crayton, (919) 966-2860 or scrayton@unch.unc.edu