James Johnston, M.D., professor in the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Neurosurgery, will assume the role of director of the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, effective October 1.
Johnston succeeds Professor of Neurosurgery Jeffrey Blount, M.D., MPH, who has admirably led the division as its inaugural director since 2018.
Johnston, who joined the Department of Neurosurgery in 2010, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to pediatric neurosurgery. Having dedicated his career to advancing the care and treatment of pediatric neurosurgery patients on a global scale, he has earned recognition among his peers as a leader in the field.
"Dr. Johnston is a proven leader in pediatric neurosurgery, and I have full confidence that he will carry on the division’s tradition of excellence," said James Markert, M.D., MPH, James Garber Galbraith Endowed Chair of Neurosurgery and Department of Neurosurgery professor. "The department is incredibly fortunate to have had Dr. Blount as division director. His legacy is one of growth and achievement."
Prior to being named division director, Johnston served as the program director of the Department of Neurosurgery Global Neurosurgery Program, the medical director of the Global Surgery Program at Children's of Alabama (COA) and the director of the Pediatric Neurosurgery Fellowship Program.
Johnston practices all areas of pediatric neurosurgery, including neuro-oncology, epilepsy, craniosynostosis, neurotrauma, hydrocephalus and spina bifida.
His primary research focus is on global health and the advancement of developing health systems. His work has resulted in multiple papers, invited presentations and research grants.
Actively engaged in progressing neurosurgical education and training, Johnston currently serves as one of only four members of the Accreditation Council for Pediatric Neurosurgery Fellowships’ Board of Directors.
"It is a privilege to take on this role and I am excited to lead the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery and continue our efforts to provide the best care possible to children and their families," said Johnston. "I am grateful to Dr. Blount for his leadership and look forward to building upon the strong foundation he has established."
Johnston earned his medical degree from the Washington University School of Medicine before completing his neurosurgical training at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Saint Louis Children's Hospital.
Under Johnston’s leadership, the division will continue making significant strides in pediatric neurosurgery and changing the lives of patients and their families.
Jeffrey Blount, M.D., MPH
"It has been a tremendous honor to serve as the director of this division and I am proud of what we have accomplished as a team. I have no doubt that Dr. Johnston will take the division to new heights in the years to come," said Blount, who will remain an active member of the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery.
Blount noted that, while he is stepping down from the role of director, he remains committed to serving patients and contributing to the work of the division in a new capacity. He will also take over as the director of the Department of Neurosurgery Global Neurosurgery Program.
With Blount's guidance, the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery has achieved significant advancements in research, patient care and education. Blount will continue his neurosurgical practice at COA, where he specializes in the treatment of spina bifida. Within his practice, Blount has a special interest in transitional care for spina bifida patients moving from pediatric to adult clinics, spina bifida prevention, global neurosurgery and healthcare advocacy.
Throughout his career, Blount has made countless contributions to the field of neurosurgery both domestically and internationally in the realm of spina bifida care and prevention. Under Blount’s leadership, the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery has seen significant advancements, including elevation from section to divisional status.
Johnston's appointment as director marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery at UAB.