Jennifer McBride, Ph.D.

Jennifer M. McBride, PhD is a Professor in the Department of Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center. She is a dedicated educator and academic leader with extensive experience in advancing anatomical sciences education. Dr. McBride is recognized for her innovative approaches to teaching and curriculum development that integrate active learning, technology, and clinically relevant experiences.

Dr. McBride earned her PhD in Neuroscience from Purdue University, where she developed a strong foundation in anatomical and neurobiological sciences. Over her career, she has focused on modernizing medical education by incorporating cutting-edge tools such as virtual reality, simulation-based experiences, and competency-driven assessments to enhance student learning and engagement.

At UT Southwestern, Dr. McBride serves as Director of Advanced Anatomy, a role in which she emphasizes the practical application of anatomical knowledge within a surgical context, specifically designed for fourth-year medical students preparing for surgical residencies. She is also the Co-Course director of Human Anatomy in the School of Health Professions, and a faculty member in the Human Structure course for medical students. 

Previously, Dr. McBride served in academic leadership roles at Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, where she spearheaded initiatives such as creating virtual anatomy learning modules and integrating interprofessional education. Her work has contributed to transforming traditional teaching methods into innovative, learner-centered practices, earning her national recognition and invitations to share her expertise at conferences, professional forums, and as an industry consultant.

A dedicated mentor, Dr. McBride is deeply committed to fostering the next generation of educators and practitioners. In recognition of her exceptional teaching and mentorship, Dr. McBride has received numerous honors, including the Kaiser-Permanente Award for Excellence in Teaching and multiple Scholarship in Teaching Awards.

 In addition to her academic contributions, Dr. McBride is an active member of professional organizations, including the American Association for Anatomy, where she has served as a board member and committee chair, contributing to strategic initiatives that advance the field.