UBC Orthopaedics Welcomes Visionary Leaders to Advance Education and Academic Excellence

Dr. Thomas Oxland


Dr. Nelson Greidanus

The UBC Department of Orthopaedics is thrilled to welcome Dr. Thomas Oxland and Dr. Nelson Greidanus, two esteemed faculty members, to take on significant leadership roles within our Department. With a vision of “pain-free mobility for all,” the Department continues its journey toward becoming a global center of excellence. This exciting leadership change is set to advance our academic mission, enhance education programs, and inspire groundbreaking research, bringing us closer to our strategic goals. Let’s celebrate and welcome the impact-driven leaders steering our path to a bright future.


Dr. Thomas Oxland, an esteemed Professor of Orthopaedics and Mechanical Engineering at UBC, assumes the role of Associate Head, Academic Affairs. With over 25 years of dedicated service to our Department, Dr. Oxland is a biomedical engineer with research expertise in orthopaedic biomechanics. In his new capacity, he will play a pivotal role in implementing the Department’s strategic plan, advancing academic goals, and contributing to the overall development of our vision. As a core member of the Department’s leadership committees, Dr. Oxland will spearhead strategic recruitment initiatives, faculty renewals, and faculty development efforts. His continued excellence in our Department makes us optimistic about the future under his leadership.

“I am delighted to work with Dr. Mulpuri and his team to advance the academic mission of UBC Orthopaedics. In my 25+ years in the Department, I have found it to be home to an outstanding group of faculty, staff, and trainees. I look forward to continued excellence.”

– Dr. Thomas Oxland

Dr. Nelson Greidanus, a seasoned orthopaedic surgeon with a subspecialty interest in complex hip and knee replacement and reconstruction, steps into the role of Associate Head, Education. As an active educator and researcher, Dr. Greidanus brings invaluable experience to this position. In his capacity, he will provide strategic guidance for the development and implementation of education programs in orthopaedics, from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. Dr. Greidanus will ensure the optimization of learner environments for trainees, address grievances and mistreatment cases, and collaborate with other directors to expand the scope of educational programming and faculty development. His passion for advancing educational goals and commitment to our growing community will undoubtedly enrich our Department’s academic landscape.

“We have a passionate and very talented community of learners and educators and I look forward to working on expanding faculty development and educational programming together with our undergraduate, graduate, postgraduate, and CME Directors. I am truly honoured to serve as Associate Head Education for the UBC Department of Orthopaedics. I am inspired by the outstanding mentors and educators that have been formative in my orthopaedic career and aspire to do my very best to advance the educational goals of our Department and Strategic Plan.”

– Dr. Nelson Greidanus

The Department’s Strategic Plan revolves around the vision of “pain-free mobility for all,” and these leaders’ roles are pivotal in making that vision a reality. Dr. Oxland’s focus on academic affairs will ensure that our Department remains at the forefront of innovative research and education. Through his leadership, strategic recruitment efforts will attract the best talent, while faculty development initiatives will enhance the quality of teaching and training, setting a global gold standard in orthopaedic education.

Meanwhile, Dr. Greidanus’ dedication to education will enrich the experience of our undergraduate, postgraduate, and CME programs. By providing strategic leadership and oversight to these education programs, he will elevate the level of excellence, fostering an optimal learning environment for our trainees. Furthermore, his commitment to addressing grievances and ensuring inclusive and equitable educational practices will nurture a community of learners and educators that values respect and collaboration.

As we celebrate the arrival of these new leaders, we look forward to witnessing the transformative impact of their contributions to the UBC Orthopaedics. With their expertise and dedication, we are confident that the Department will continue to grow as a beacon of excellence and an advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion in orthopaedic healthcare. Together, we are poised to shape a bright, more mobile future for patients and professionals alike.

Finally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Peter O’Brien and Dr. Fay Leung for their exceptional leadership and contributions as past Associate Heads, Academic and Education, respectively, to our Department. Dr. O’Brien’s efforts and expertise have been instrumental in propelling our academic pursuits to new heights, and we extend our warmest wishes for a joyous and fulfilling retirement. Dr. Leung’s dedication to education has enriched countless students, and we celebrate her ongoing success as Director for our Orthopaedic Residency Program. Their unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions have left an indelible mark on our Department’s progress, and we cannot thank them enough for their exceptional guidance throughout the years.

As we embark on this new phase of growth and progress, we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you all for your support as we continue to grow together!

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