Harriet W. Hopf, professor of anesthesiology at the University of Utah School of Medicine, has been appointed to lead the school's Women in Medicine program.

Hopf taught anesthesia and surgery at the University of California, San Francisco, before going to the U. in 2006 and since then has earned various accolades and awards demonstrating her expertise. Dean of the U. medical school David J. Bjorkman said Hopf's experience and "ambitious agenda" are "expected to enhance the experience of all participants at the University of Utah."

The program was created by the Association of American Medical Colleges to improve pathways for women in medicine and science. It has been effective in advancing the careers of women students, trainees and faculty for a number of years, Hopf said.

"My goal as the new leader of the organization is to give medical students, residents, fellows and junior faculty the tools required to pursue a successful career in medicine," she said.

In conjunction with her new role, Hopf will serve as director of mentoring in the medical school's faculty administration office.