Three Semmes Murphey Physicians Set to Lead at UT Neurosurgery

Semmes Murphey is proud to congratulate three of our own on their appointments to leadership roles within the University of Tennessee Health Science Center's Department of Neurosurgery.

Dr. Paul Park, a neurosurgeon specializing in minimally invasive techniques, complex spinal reconstruction, and degenerative spine conditions, has been named the J.T. Robertson Chair of the Department. Dr. Park's connection to Semmes Murphey runs deep: he completed his post-residency fellowship in minimally invasive spinal surgery here before going on to spend nearly 17 years as a professor, spine program director, and spine fellowship director at the University of Michigan. He returned to Semmes Murphey bringing with him more than 300 peer-reviewed publications, extensive clinical trial leadership, and a patient-centered philosophy grounded in offering the least invasive option possible.

Joining him in this new leadership chapter is Dr. L. Madison Michael, who has been appointed Vice Chair of the Department. A specialist in skull-base and vascular neurosurgery, Dr. Michael completed his neurosurgical residency at UT and went on to pursue advanced fellowship training in skull-base and open vascular neurosurgery in Bristol, England. In addition to his clinical practice at Semmes Murphey, he serves as Professor of Neurosurgery and Otolaryngology, Program Director for the neurosurgical residency at UT Health Science Center, and Co-Director of Cranial Base Surgery at the Methodist Brain and Spine Institute.

Also being recognized is Dr. Nickalus Khan, a Memphis native who has been appointed Program Director for the Department. A specialist in cerebrovascular and skull base surgery, Dr. Khan brings more than 160 peer-reviewed publications and a deep commitment to resident education and surgical training. He currently serves as Scientific Chair of the North American Skull Base Society, a reflection of his influence within the specialty and his dedication to advancing research and collaboration at the national level.

Together, Drs. Park, Michael, and Khan bring a powerful combination of academic innovation and institutional expertise, reflecting Semmes Murphey's longstanding commitment to advancing neurosurgical care across the Mid-South and beyond. Please join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved achievement!