Lela Giannaris, PhD is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Translational Anatomy in the Department of Radiology. She earned a PhD in Anatomy and Neurobiology from Boston University School of Medicine and joined the UMMS faculty in 2010. Dr. Giannaris holds a number of educational leadership positions at UMMS. She serves as Co-Leader and Director of Anatomy of the Development, Structure and Function course (DSF) for first year medical students. In addition, Dr. Giannaris directs the Summer Anatomy Enrichment Program for rising second year medical students interested in receiving further training in anatomy and developing educational materials to enhance the anatomy curriculum. She is also a core faculty member in the Brain: Clinical Neuroanatomy course for second year medical students. She enjoys working with students and strives to create a positive and inclusive learning environment.  Dr. Giannaris has been honored for her teaching efforts with an Outstanding Medical Educator award.

Dr. Giannaris has conducted neuroscience research on various topics, such as gene therapy for neurodegenerative diseases and quantitative neuroanatomy in aging. Her scholarly interests include curriculum development, self-directed learning resources, and competencies for anatomy in medical education. She is inspired by the collaborative work and innovation that comes from engaging with colleagues on interprofessional teams.

In addition to her many service contributions at UMMS, Dr. Giannaris is also involved on the national level with anatomy professional organizations.  She serves as Chair of the Educational Affairs Committee (EAC) of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists (AACA). Most recently, she was elected to the Professional Development Committee of the American Association of Anatomists (AAA).