Shui-Hong Zhou, MD, PhD, is Director and Chief Physician of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery at The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, where he also serves as a doctoral supervisor. His primary research field is laryngopharyngeal and head-and-neck oncology, with a focus on surgical innovation, functional preservation, and comprehensive patient care. Dr. Zhou obtained both his MD and PhD degrees from Zhejiang University School of Medicine, one of China’s leading academic institutions. Over the course of his training, he developed a strong foundation in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery and subsequently advanced to full professorship and departmental leadership through outstanding academic, clinical, and research performance. Career: Dr. Zhou’s personal and professional goal has been to integrate surgical precision with functional preservation in the treatment of laryngeal, hypopharyngeal, and cervical esophageal cancers. He is primarily engaged in advancing surgical reconstruction techniques, improving oncologic and functional outcomes, and training the next generation of otolaryngologists. His long-term research focuses on bridging clinical practice and translational science to optimize treatment strategies and patient quality of life. Research field: Dr. Zhou has made substantial contributions to the field of laryngopharyngeal oncology. He has pioneered multiple reconstructive techniques—including supraclavicular island flaps, U-shaped and double-island pectoralis major flaps, and endoscope-assisted tumor resections—that differentiate his work from that of peers by emphasizing both oncologic safety and functional preservation. He also introduced innovative approaches such as the retropharyngeal–posterior mediastinal technique for complex infections and colon interposition grafts for extensive resections. His guiding principle has been that surgical excellence must be coupled with restoration of speech, swallowing, and psychological well-being. Academic contributions: As principal investigator of three General Program grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Dr. Zhou has advanced both surgical methodology and translational understanding in head-and-neck oncology. His clinical innovations have been widely adopted and have shaped standards of care in China. His work has received broad recognition from international peers, particularly in the areas of hypopharyngeal reconstruction and laryngopharyngeal functional preservation, thereby significantly promoting the development of head-and-neck surgery as a discipline. Conference presentations: Dr. Zhou has frequently been invited to deliver keynote lectures and plenary presentations at major national and international conferences in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery. His presentations on reconstructive techniques, surgical strategies for complex hypopharyngeal and cervical esophageal defects, and patient-centered care models have generated wide discussion and influenced clinical practice guidelines. Publications: Dr. Zhou has authored numerous impactful publications in leading journals, including original research articles, clinical studies, and reviews focusing on surgical innovation and head-and-neck oncology. His publications are highly cited and are recognized for their clinical applicability and influence in shaping surgical practice both in China and internationally. Contributions to journals: In addition to publishing his own work, Dr. Zhou has served as an editorial board member of the Chinese Journal of Otorhinolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery. He has reviewed a substantial number of manuscripts for national and international journals, contributing to the advancement of academic standards in his field. His service also includes writing invited editorials and providing expert commentary on surgical innovation and clinical practice. Professional skills: Dr. Zhou is recognized for his distinctive professional skills that extend beyond surgical mastery. His active listening, communication, and interpersonal skills allow him to build strong rapport with patients and colleagues. As a departmental leader, he demonstrates effective management and organizational abilities. He is also highly regarded as a mentor, having trained numerous graduate students and residents who now serve in key positions across China. His problem-solving skills are evident in his ability to design and implement novel surgical solutions for complex clinical scenarios. Social titles: Dr. Zhou has held numerous influential positions in professional societies. He is a member of the Otorhinolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery Branch of the Chinese Medical Association, immediate past chair of the Zhejiang Provincial Otorhinolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery Branch, vice-chair of the Zhejiang Provincial Medical Doctor Association branch, and standing committee member of both the Chinese Medical Doctor Association and CPAM’s Laryngopharyngeal & Voice Science Branch. He also contributes to the Committee of Laser Medicine of the Zhejiang Provincial Medical Association and the Committee on Post-Graduate Medical Education in Otorhinolaryngology of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association. Social impact: Through his leadership roles, Dr. Zhou has participated in developing clinical guidelines and expert consensus documents in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, influencing standards of diagnosis, treatment, and training across China. His involvement has directly shaped quality control and residency education programs, thereby elevating the national standard of care. Daily activity: Outside of his professional commitments, Dr. Zhou enjoys reading, engaging in cultural activities, and spending time with family. These hobbies reflect his balanced approach to life and contribute to his emphasis on holistic patient care that values both physical and psychological well-being.