Dr. Christopher Warlick Inducted into the Academy for Excellence in Team Science
Minneapolis, Minn. – Christopher Warlick, MD, PhD, Department Chair and Professor in the Department of Urology, has been inducted into the University of Minnesota’s Academy for Excellence in Team Science as a member of the Prostate Cancer Imaging Research Team (PCIRT). The Academy for Excellence in Team Science recognizes exemplary interdisciplinary teams whose biomedical or health care research addresses significant health challenges.
Dr. Warlick is nationally recognized for his leadership in active surveillance for low‑risk prostate cancer and for integrating robotic-assisted surgery for patients requiring definitive treatment. Dr. Warlick and his colleagues on the PCIRT were honored for their collaborative work advancing prostate cancer imaging to improve detection, monitoring, and clinical decision-making. Their team spans both the Medical School and the School of Public Health, integrating expertise in urology, radiology, biostatistics, and pathology to translate cutting-edge imaging innovations into tangible improvements in patient care.
Faculty members receiving this honor are:
- Gregory Metzger, Professor, Medical School
- Joseph Koopmeiners, Professor, School of Public Health
- Christopher Warlick, Professor, Medical School
- Lin Zhang, Associate Professor, School of Public Health
- Benjamin Spilseth, Associate Professor, Medical School
- Paari Murugan, Associate Professor, Medical School
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and related technologies have dramatically transformed how clinicians evaluate prostate cancer, allowing providers to differentiate indolent disease from more aggressive tumors, guide targeted biopsies, and inform individualized treatment planning. The University of Minnesota offers an exceptional environment for this work, supported by two premier imaging centers.
The Center for Magnetic Resonance Research (CMRR) pioneered ultrahigh-field MRI and continues to develop state-of-the-art imaging instrumentation and methods utilized around the world. Complementing this, the Center for Clinical Imaging Research (CCIR) provides access to advanced MRI, PET/CT, and specialized post-processing capabilities that drive translational research.
This strong imaging infrastructure directly impacts clinical care. In 2025, the M Health Fairview Clinics and Surgery Center–where many Department of Urology patients receive care–earned the American College of Radiology Prostate Cancer MRI Center designation in recognition of its superior image quality, MRI techniques, and outcomes tracking in prostate cancer imaging.
Together, Dr. Warlick and the Prostate Cancer Imaging Research Team exemplify the power of collaboration, innovation, and patient‑centered discovery at the University of Minnesota. Their work not only advances the science of prostate cancer imaging but also strengthens the clinical pathways that improve outcomes for patients across the region.
