Professor of Surgery, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Vice Chair of Clinical Affairs, Department of Surgery

Here is what Dr. Hiramoto's nominator had to say about her:

I nominated Dr. Jade Hiramoto for the Spotlight Award because she embodies what it means to lead with both strength and authenticity in a space where women are still underrepresented. As a vascular surgeon at UCSF—one of the most technically demanding and male-dominated specialties—Dr. Hiramoto not only demonstrates exceptional competence in her field; she actively reshapes the narrative of leadership within surgical specialties.

She manages some of the most complex and high-risk vascular cases—treating life-threatening aneurysms and dissections—with a composed precision that instills confidence in her interdisciplinary team and earns the trust of her patients.. But what truly sets her apart is how she uplifts others while breaking ground herself. Whether she’s mentoring future surgeons, championing equitable care, or shaping clinical strategy as the Department of Surgery’s Vice Chair for Clinical Affairs, Dr. Hiramoto leads with a rare blend of vision and compassion.

She’s not just a role model because she’s successful—she’s a role model because she makes space for others to succeed. Her presence tells every woman in medicine, “You belong here. And you can lead here too.”

Nominated by Alpana Patel Camili, BS, CRA, (R) (CT)

Jade's Bio: 

Dr. Hiramoto is a vascular surgeon at UCSF with extensive expertise in both minimally invasive endovascular techniques and open surgical procedures. Her clinical focus includes treatment of thoracic and abdominal aortic aneurysms and dissections, carotid artery disease, renovascular conditions, and lower extremity vascular disorders. A UCSF graduate, Dr. Hiramoto completed her medical degree, general surgery residency, and fellowships in interventional radiology and vascular surgery at UCSF, where she also earned a master’s in clinical research. She is board-certified in both general and vascular surgery and serves as a professor of surgery at UCSF. Most recently, she was honored with a UCSF Health Exceptional Physician Award.

What advice would you give yourself early on in your career? To a woman entering your field today?

If I could give my younger self advice, I would tell myself to believe in my abilities and not let self-doubt hold me back.  I think it’s easy to feel like an imposter early on, but I would tell myself that I am more than capable and to allow myself some grace as I grow into the role.  I would say similar things to women entering my field today and remind them that their voices and perspectives are valued and need to be heard!

What has been an important success in your career? Have you had a key breakthrough moment?

From a clinical care standpoint, I feel like we are taking care of sicker patients with increasingly complex disease processes, and it always feels like a breakthrough moment when you get your patient through a surgical procedure that seems impossible.  An important pivot point in my career was taking on the responsibility as the President of the UCSF Medical Staff – I learned a lot about negotiating the intricate balance between the needs of our staff, patient care, and the institution’s goals.

What brought you to healthcare? Can you tell us about your professional journey?

I did not have any family members in the medical field, but I was always drawn to healthcare, even as a child.  My professional journey was personal as well – my family did not have health insurance for a long period of time, and I witnessed the negative effects of this. As cliché as it sounds, I was inspired by the idea of making a tangible difference in people’s lives. I was drawn to the precision and innovative nature of vascular surgery – it’s a field that has significantly evolved over the past three decades, and I feel that I am constantly learning, growing, and problem-solving.

How do you think the role of women in the workforce has changed throughout your career?

When I first started, there were fewer women in surgery and even fewer in vascular surgery. Over the years, I’ve seen more women enter the field, and the culture around it has become more inclusive. There are also more women in leadership roles and mentorship positions, and the atmosphere has become more supportive of work-life balance and flexible career paths. While challenges still exist, I believe we’ve made great strides. It's now easier for young women entering the workforce to see role models who reflect their aspirations.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family and friends.  I enjoy activities that help me recharge, especially running—it's a great way to disconnect and refresh. I also read a lot of fiction/crime novels to see if I can figure out who did it! And, I especially love to travel - exploring new places, cultures, and food gives me a broader understanding of the world.

Meet other outstanding women of UCSF through Our Spotlight.