2026 AOY Honoree, College of Medicine – Phoenix - Class of 2013
Robert Bina is a neurosurgeon, educator and researcher whose work has significantly shaped medical education and functional neurosurgery in Arizona and beyond. A proud 2013 graduate of the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, he currently serves as interim vice chair of neurosurgery and director of the neurosurgery residency program at Banner Health in Phoenix.
Following his medical degree, Robert completed his neurological surgery residency at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson, with additional fellowships in epilepsy and functional neurosurgery at the University of Louisville and Swedish Medical Center.
Robert is widely recognized for his contributions to academic medicine, including foundational neuroscience instruction and mentorship across all levels of training. He has received multiple honors for mentoring and excellence in teaching, and his commitment to service and humanistic care earned him the Robert V. Ansay Humanism Resident Award and induction into the Gold Humanism Honor Society.
Robert leads Project Waterfall, a mentorship and research pipeline initiative at COM – P that has become a model for other specialties. He also remains an active contributor to the scientific community, with ongoing publications in functional and epilepsy neurosurgery.
In addition to his academic and clinical roles, Robert contributes to professional leadership and service through roles with the Arizona Neurosurgical Society, the American Society of Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgeons, and faculty search committees.
For his outstanding career and his commitment to service and education, the University of Arizona is pleased to name Robert Bina the 2026 Alumnus of the Year for the College of Medicine – Phoenix.
Meet the 2026 Alumni of the Year
Every year, the University of Arizona salutes a group of alumni for their achievements, public service, advocacy for education, volunteerism and service to students, the colleges and the university. Meet this year's award winners!