ORLANDO, FL (Sept. 13, 2025) — Qihui “Jim” Zhai, MD, FCAP, was sworn in today as the 39th president of the College of American Pathologists (CAP) during the meeting of the membership at CAP25. He takes on the role at a time when pathologists are helping to drive advances in precision medicine, digital diagnostics, and health care innovation.
In his inaugural address, Dr. Zhai recalled biking across China as a medical student, a journey that taught him to seek opportunity, face uncertainty, and keep moving forward. “Only when moving can one maintain one’s balance,” he said, quoting Albert Einstein’s philosophy that shapes his vision for CAP’s future.
He told his colleagues he sees pressing challenges facing the profession, from workforce shortages and payment pressures to the rapid integration of artificial intelligence in clinical practice.
As president, Dr. Zhai plans to:
Connect pathologists across subspecialties, practice settings, and generations to strengthen collaboration and advocacy.
Inspire growth through mentorship, advocacy, and global engagement.
Embrace innovation, including artificial intelligence and digital tools, to ensure pathologists remain central to patient care.
Watch his story: Learn more about Dr. Zhai’s journey and his vision for the CAP in this video profile.
“Pathologists are central to every diagnosis and treatment decision, and leading the CAP is an opportunity to champion their role in delivering high-quality, evidence-based care,” Dr. Zhai said. “Together, we can connect our members across generations and practice settings, inspire excellence through mentorship and advocacy, and embrace innovation that strengthens our profession.”
Dr. Zhai serves as Chair of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology at LSU Health Shreveport, continuing a career that blends surgical pathology, leadership, and service to the medical community. He received his medical degree from Shandong University School of Medicine in Jinan, Shandong, Peoples Republic of China. He completed his postdoctoral fellowship in neuroscience from Creighton University in Omaha, his residency from Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., and a fellowship in oncologic pathology from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.
“I’m committed to growing our profession, mentoring future pathologists, expanding our impact, and embracing innovation without losing sight of what matters most: the patients we serve,” Dr. Zhai said.
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About the College of American Pathologists
As the world’s largest organization of board-certified pathologists and leading provider of laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing programs, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) serves patients, pathologists, and the public by fostering and advocating excellence in the practice of pathology and laboratory medicine worldwide.
For more information, visit the CAP Newsroom, CAP.org and yourpathologist.org to watch pathologists at work and see the stories of the patients who trust them with their care.