Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Sophia Khan, MD
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education.
This month’s feature is Sophia Khan, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery.
What is your background? When did you join UTHealth Houston?
I’m a Jersey girl – born and raised in Rahway, New Jersey. I went to undergrad at the University of Pennsylvania, medical school at Robert Wood Johnson, and residency at Cooper University. I joined UTHealth Houston as a vascular surgery fellow, fell in love with the program, and have been faculty since I finished in 2019.
What inspired you to pursue a career in science and medicine?
A better question would be “who inspired me?” It would be my dad. He’s an electrical engineer by training but would spend hours on weekends reading the latest advancements in medicine and science with me when I was growing up (we were obsessed with the story of Dolly). He and my mom have been my biggest cheerleaders, and I couldn’t have achieved what I have without them.
What are you current clinical and/or research interests?
Building predictive models on cardiovascular pathologies using machine learning.
Who are your role models?
Dr. Eanas Yassa. She was my vascular surgery fellow when I was a junior general surgery resident. She showed me that strength is not just about physical prowess but also about mental fortitude and emotional resilience. Her guidance and mentorship have not only shaped my career but have also influenced my character, reminding me that, like her, I can face any challenge with strength, grace, and unwavering determination. I am lucky to call her a role model and even more lucky to call her a friend.
What do you enjoy most about working at UTHealth Houston?
The team mentality. It doesn’t matter what part of the hospital you are in, whether it be in HVI, Sarofim, or Jones – everyone has a common goal and is willing to do everything they can for patients and patient outcomes.
How do you think UTHealth Houston can further support female faculty?
I think UTHealth Houston actually does a pretty good job about supporting female faculty. I think they can further support their faculty by just remembering that the female experience is different than her male counterparts. The challenges she faces are different than her peers, and we should always remember that.
Is there a woman faculty member you would like to see featured in the monthly Women in Medicine and Sciences feature? Click here to nominate.