In 2019, Dr. Zender started his clinical and administrative work at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine as a Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology along with several leadership roles including the Center of Excellence Co-Leader for Head and Neck Cancer, UC Cancer Center, and as an Associate Chief Medical Officer for UC Health.

His research interests involve clinical trials utilizing the non-surgical treatment of HPV-related head and neck cancer, targeted therapies such as adjuvant therapy after surgery, and identifying diagnostic biomarkers for the early identification of cancerous and precancerous lesions in the head and neck.

He will work in close collaboration with Dr. Tricia Wise-Draper, Co-Leader of the Center of Excellence for Head and Neck, as well as with all members of the Head and Neck Center Team. He will continue his international collaboration with the head and neck program, led by Dr. Jeff Otiti, in Kampala, Uganda where he leads a team twice annually for surgical outreach camps.