Nicholas Shaheen is a gastroenterologist and epidemiologist who is probably best known for his groundbreaking research on Barrett’s esophagus. A major theme of his research has been developing and testing new endoscopic methods for treatment of patients with Barrett’s. He was the principal investigator of a 19 center U.S. trial of radiofrequency ablation for dysplastic Barrett’s esophagus, demonstrating the efficacy and safety of this procedure. The paper was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. He was also the lead investigator of a 10 center study defining the efficacy of cryotherapy in subjects with Barrett’s and high-grade dysplasia. These endoscopic technologies have fundamentally changed the care of patients with early esophageal neoplasia. He is also a member of several consortia that are conducting translational studies of Barrett’s patients.

Relevance of Research to CGIBD Mission: Nicholas Shaheen conducts clinical trials, translational research and epidemiological studies on Barrett’s esophagus. These studies have involved a number of CGIBD members and trainees. He is the PI for a T35 summer research program that trains medical students in research. He is the chief of the UNC Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. His research and leadership positions are important for the success of the CGIBD.

CGIBD Focus Area(s): Clinical/Translational Research

Awards and Honors
Ray Hayworth 62 Medical Alumni Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology, UNC SOM & SPH, 2009-present
Associate Editor, American Journal of Gastroenterology, 2009-present
Chair, Clinical Practice Section, American Gastroenterological Association, 2008-present
Editorial Board, Clinical Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 2007-present
President, North Carolina Society for Gastroenterology, 2006-08
AGA Young Investigator Clinical Science Award, 2005
Assoc. Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology (Tenured), UNC School of Medicine and SPH, 2004-2009
Best Doctors in America by Best Doctors in America, 2003-present