Ann Marie Murray, M.D., a professor in the West Virginia University School of Medicine Department of Neurology and the WVU Rockefeller Neurosciences Institute (RNI), has been named to the Hubert A. and Hazel L. Shaffer Clinical Professorship.
The professorship is unique in that this role will have a research professor counterpart – a forthcoming endowed professorship whose recipient has yet to be named. The pair will work in tandem to treat neuropsychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia and movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease.
“With this endowment, we will not only be able to bring cutting-edge research and treatment to patients currently affected by neurologic disease, but we will also be able to expand access and insight into genetics that will help improve the future of people at risk for neurologic disease,” Dr. Murray, who also serves as division chief of the RNI Comprehensive Movement Disorder Center, said.
Murray’s professorship will focus on making significant and translational discoveries that improve patients’ lives.
She has devoted her career to neurological education and scientific advancement, including involvement at the school, state and national levels. She’s participated in numerous national research trials and served on multiple national committees, including representing the American Academy of Neurology for the American Medical Association.
“This is an incredible opportunity to make progress on causes that matter not only to the Shaffer family, but for many families across West Virginia and the region,” Murray said. “It’s important work that reinforces our mission improving health through patient care, research and education while highlighting the spirit of collaboration at the RNI.”
During her time as WVU faculty, she’s served as director of various academic programs, including Neurology’s clerkship, externship and elective programs.
Murray completed her neurology residency training, earned her medical degree, and a bachelor’s degree in biology, all from WVU, and is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
Dr. Hubert Shaffer, Jr., an alumnus of the School of Medicine’s M.D. program, was instrumental in establishing and revolutionizing the endowment named for his late parents.
The endowment was established from the previous Dr. Hubert A. Shaffer Sr. and Hazel L. Shaffer Chair in Genetics, which was created in honor and recognition of the elder Dr. Shaffer’s advanced work in the field of genetics and the family’s long relationship with WVU and the School of Medicine.
For more information about the Department of Neurology, visit medicine.wvu.edu/neurology/.
-WVU-
zl/ct 6/9/25
CONTACT:
Cassie Thomas,
Director of Communications and Marketing
304-293-3412