Staff

Meet Our Team

Team Structure & Collaboration

Join a Renowned GI Team Rooted in Collaboration and Excellence

At UCI’s Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, you will become part of a nationally recognized team that blends deep clinical expertise with academic leadership. With 23 faculty members—including subspecialists in IBD, hepatology, and interventional endoscopy—this group of accomplished physicians offers both professional camaraderie and personal support. The division’s inclusive, team-oriented culture ensures you’ll be joining a workplace where respect, mentorship, and clinical excellence are the norm.

You’ll also work alongside 12 GI fellows and 2–3 advanced fellows, contributing to an environment of continuous learning and shared discovery. The division is poised to expand to 26 GI faculty members by August 2024, enhancing subspecialty depth and reducing individual workload.

Leadership Team:

  • Dr. Jason B. Samarasena, MD, MBA – Chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. An interventional gastroenterologist at UCI Health, Dr. Samarasena has pioneered numerous endoscopic approaches to treating digestive diseases, including incisionless surgery for esophageal cancer. He has been named a Physician of Excellence for six consecutive years from 2020 to 2025 and currently serves as the president of the Orange County Gastroenterology Society.
  • Dr. William Karnes, MD – Associate Chief of the Division. Dr. Karnes is recognized for his work in colorectal cancer prevention and the application of artificial intelligence in colonoscopy.

Faculty Backgrounds:

The faculty at UCI’s Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology are engaged in a broad spectrum of clinical and basic research to advance the knowledge, treatment, and cure of gastrointestinal diseases. Their work has brought the division national and international recognition for excellence.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment:

UCI School of Medicine is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment. The Office of Belonging, Equity and Empowerment (BEE) supports the advancement of inclusive excellence in medicine by promoting values, practices, programming, and policies that reflect diversity, equity, and inclusion—core values that invigorate the UCI School of Medicine’s mission: Discover. Teach. Heal.

This commitment ensures a welcome and supportive environment for all faculty, staff, and students, enhancing the collaborative and innovative spirit of the division.

Quick Snapshot:

  • Collaborate with 23+ faculty, including six advanced endoscopists and experts in IBD and hepatology
  • Work with 12 fellows and 2–3 advanced fellows who support care and promote academic growth
  • Supported by 3 PAs and an experienced administrative staff
  • Low turnover and high faculty satisfaction reflect strong institutional support
  • Explore the full team: UCI GI Faculty Directory

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