Former Fellows

Hometown: Salt Lake City, UT

Undergrad: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston MA

Medical school: Duke University, Durham NC

Career interests/interests within pediatrics: Microbial genomics and epidemiology of invasive Streptococcal infections in children

Hobbies/interests outside of work: Cooking and Baking, Yoga, Hiking, Gardening, Skiing 

Why Utah Pediatric ID? The University of Utah pediatric infectious disease program was appealing because of the unique combination of 1) a vibrant clinical and basic science research community, 2) a well connected, respected, and supportive faculty with active engagement in translational research, and 3) a location where quality of life is unparalleled. The proximity and ease of transitioning from the hospital, to research in the lab, to enjoying the beautiful weather outside all year round (without tons of bugs!) permits an unbeatable work-life balance.

What is your favorite part about our program? I appreciate the inquisitive and collegial dynamic of the division, with active collaboration on both research and clinical problems. The diversity of styles, approaches, and interests in the division is a strength for fellowship training. I have greatly appreciated and benefitted from the investment of my mentors, who have supported my specific interests, and been flexible to support my success in my professional and personal life. 

What's your favorite part about living in Salt Lake City? Salt Lake City is a beautiful place to live. Day-to-day living is easy, and you can enjoy being outside in many environments (from your own backyard and to the remote mountains) year round. The city is within easy driving distance to the mountains and a broad range of amazing national parks, and an easy plane flight away from places further afield with an international airport. There are great places to eat, play, relax and restore close to home, and I am always finding new places and things to explore. 

What cool research/advocacy/education/scholarly work are you participating in? During my fellowship, I have learned bioinformatics for studying microbial genomic virulence determinants of invasive Pneumococcal disease phenotypes. I have also been a able to mentor both medical students and residents on research projects describing demographics of emerging/unusual disease presentations including group A streptococcal peritonitis and sinogenic empyema. 

What has been a standout rotation or teaching experience you've been part of as a fellow? Most of our clinical time is spent on the inpatient service, but this is far from mundane. The diversity of clinical problems and cases we see and care for never fails to intrigue, challenge, and stretch the boundaries of my knowledge. Our clinical faculty strike a balance of fellow autonomy which has permitted me to find my own style with the support and knowledge of the larger community, including our antimicrobial stewards. I have also been privileged to participate in a research fellowship in microbial pathogenesis, which has supported my research and fostered involvement in the basic science community with mentorship outside my clinical department.

What is something you didn't know before coming to Utah that you wish you did? Having grown up here, I was excited to return to Salt Lake City because it has always been an amazing place to live, and knew it would be a wonderful place to raise a family. I was surprised when I returned as a physician for my residency then fellowship training, by how rewarding this new role was in this community. I am grateful to work with amazing patients and families, who surprise and inspire me every day. 

What are your plans following fellowship? I plan to pursue a career as a physician-scientist, continuing involvement in clinical pediatric infectious disease practice as well as research investigating Streptococcal virulence determinants of invasive disease, with the goal of improving treatment and prevention of these severe and sometimes devastating infections.