Dr. Shirley Penkar is a Houston native, growing up in The Woodlands. Her interest in science led her to attend college at Rice University where she obtained a B.A. in biology as well as in economics. She then went on to receive her medical degree from The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas.

Dr. Penkar completed her residency training at Parkland Hospital/UT Southwestern in Dallas, one of the busiest obstetrical programs in the country, the hospital performs fifteen thousand deliveries per year.
Dr. Penkar has received extensive training in high risk obstetrics and also has an interest in minimally invasive surgery.

She has received an award for Top Performance in Laparoscopic Skills and the Excellence in Colposcopy award during her chief year of residency. Dr. Penkar later served one year as clinical Assistant professor of medicine at UT Southwestern.

Dr. Penkar enjoys traveling, reading and spending time with friends and family. Dr. Penkar is certified by American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology and is a member of the Harris County Medical Society