Laura Torbeck, PhD, MS

Laura Torbeck, PhD, is a Professor of Surgery, PhD Educator and Vice Chair of Professional Development for the Department of Surgery, and an Assistant Dean for Faculty Affairs and Professional Development for Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Torbeck received her doctorate in Science Education from University of Pittsburgh and her masters in Anatomy from Wright State University. She champions professional development initiatives for surgery as well as for state-wide faculty. Dr. Torbeck has developed a robust professional development program for residents, surgical advance practice providers, administrative staff and faculty in the department of surgery and serves as a consultant for institutions looking to enhance their professional development initiatives. Dr. Torbeck served as Vice Chair of Education for 10 years and assisted clerkship directors, program directors and coordinators with elevating the training paradigm in surgery. She has been integral in the surgery Residents as Teachers courses and has presented at various GME venues across campus. Her research interests include intraoperative guidance and autonomy, program evaluation, remediation practices and faculty development. In 2019, Dr. Torbeck became a Board-Certified Coach and partners with faculty, staff and learners to help them move forward and gain momentum with their work-life challenges.