Research in the Division of Colorectal Surgery includes programs in surgical quality and outcomes, clinical treatment, basic science investigations, and more.
Our Researchers
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Evie Carchman, MD: Identifying new targeted therapies to combat anal cancer
Dr. Carchman studies molecular pathways, including the autophagic pathway, which result in the development of anal dysplasia and progression to anal cancer. Her team has demonstrated that topical therapy that results in autophagic induction decreases both anal cancer and anal dysplasia development in an HPV mouse model of anal cancer, and that this treatment effect correlates with the induction of autophagy. Dr. Carchman is assessing the role of autophagic induction in the prevention of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus.
Elise Lawson, MD, MSHS: Improving quality of care for surgical patients
Dr. Lawson is Executive Director of the Surgical Collaborative of Wisconsin, a state-wide surgeon-led organization that aims to optimize quality, reduce costs, and promote delivery of care that is safe, effective, equitable, and patient-centered. Dr. Lawson’s research investigates variation in the delivery of colorectal cancer care, specifically addressing disparities in access, management, and outcomes.
Latest Research News
Opportunities for Success: Residents Thrive During Research Years
Research is one of the foundational pillars in the UW–Madison Department of Surgery. That is reflected throughout the department, including the trainee programs. All three of our residency programs provide trainees opportunities for dedicated research …
Wisconsin Surgery Research Roundup: January 2026
Wisconsin Department of Surgery members engage in remarkable research that yields many impactful publications every month. We’re highlighting several of these publications monthly to showcase the diversity of research in the department; see selections from …
Department of Surgery Celebrates 17th Annual Research Summit
On Thursday, Jan. 29, the Department of Surgery celebrated the 17th Annual Research Summit. The theme of this year’s summit was “Research Without Borders.” Our keynote speaker was Dr. Sandra Wong, Dean of Emory University …
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