Robert Bruce Hawkins, MD, MSc

Dr. Robert Hawkins joined the Department of Cardiac Surgery at Michigan Medicine in 2021. He was raised in Connecticut and Virginia before completing undergraduate studies in Neuroscience at Middlebury College in Vermont. He then attended the University of Colorado for medical school before completing his cardiothoracic surgical training at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville.

His current clinical research focuses on the impact of health policy, economics and surgical techniques on cardiac surgical access and quality. His basic science research focuses on the micro-RNA pathways of thoracic aortic aneurysm formation. He has published over 200 peer-reviewed manuscripts, is an Associate Statistical Editor at the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, and sits on multiple national societal committees focused on guidelines and quality.

Dr. Hawkins has clinical interests in complex coronary revascularization and helps lead a multidisciplinary team to provide patients with personalized revascularization strategies. He performs both transcatheter and surgical valve procedures, including minimally invasive approaches. Additionally, he initiated the robotic cardiac surgery program at Michigan Medicine, combining his interests in minimally invasive approach and coronary revascularization. He has an interest in complex cardiac surgery and performs a high volume of Impella (LVAD) assisted coronary and valve operations. In his leisure time, he enjoys skiing, running, cycling, and spending time with his wife, Lauren, and their two sons.

University of Michigan Health participates with most health insurance plans.

My clinical research focuses on cardiovascular surgical outcomes, health policy and economics. My basic science research focuses on prevention and treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysms. I also am the associate statistical editor for the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. Please see my complete bibliography.