Dr. Shahrad Taheri to lead obesity and diabetes health efforts as vice dean at Marshall University

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine and Marshall Health Network welcome Shahrad Taheri, BSc, MSc, MBBS, Ph.D., FRCP, as professor and vice dean of adiposity-based chronic diseases, where he will lead efforts to improve care, research and education focused on obesity, diabetes and other related metabolic conditions across the region. 

Taheri is an internationally recognized physician-scientist whose research has significantly advanced understanding of obesity and metabolic health. His work has explored the complex interactions between sleep, circadian rhythms, hormones and metabolism, helping uncover how disruptions in these systems contribute to obesity and related chronic diseases. He has also led pioneering clinical studies on diabetes prevention and lifestyle interventions, including large-scale community-based programs aimed at improving population health. 

Taheri has extensive experience leading large multidisciplinary clinical and research teams. He has more than 250 publications, is ranked among the top 2% of scientists worldwide and has won several awards for his research and clinical care. He has more than 30 years of experience in managing patients with endocrine and metabolic diseases and has led large obesity centers internationally. Taheri has been a member of the Clinical Care Committee of the World Obesity Federation and is editor-in-chief of Clinical Obesity, the leading clinical journal of the World Obesity Federation. He has contributed to several national and international policies and guidelines for diabetes and obesity and is well-versed in bringing key stakeholders together to achieve common goals. 

The significance of Taheri’s research lies in its direct translation to patient care—bridging scientific discovery with practical, scalable solutions that improve outcomes. His work has informed more personalized and effective approaches to treating obesity and metabolic disease, particularly in populations disproportionately affected by these conditions. 

“Dr. Taheri’s expertise represents a significant step forward in advancing our Centers of Wellness strategy,” said David Gozal, M.D., MBA, Ph.D. (Hon), vice president for health affairs at Marshall University and dean of the School of Medicine. “By integrating advanced research and clinical trials with clinical care and education, we are strengthening our ability to address adiposity-based chronic diseases in a comprehensive way—one that reflects our commitment to improving health outcomes, particularly across West Virginia and in rural and underserved communities.” 

As vice dean, Taheri will collaborate with clinical and academic leaders across Marshall Health Network to expand access to evidence-based care, enhance training opportunities for medical students, resident physicians and fellows and foster research initiatives that translate into improved patient outcomes. 

“I am honored to join Marshall and be part of a health system deeply committed to improving the health of its communities,” Taheri said. “There is a tremendous opportunity to reduce the burden of metabolic diseases and treat adiposity-based chronic diseases by integrating research, clinical care and community engagement. I look forward to working with colleagues across our university and academic health system to make a meaningful impact.” 

Taheri’s appointment reflects Marshall’s continued investment in addressing chronic disease through a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to care.