The Michigan Medicine Division of Rheumatology Scientist Training in Rheumatology Research program is designed to prepare outstanding postdoctoral scientists, both MD and PhD, for investigative careers in research related to rheumatic diseases.
Our program has a strong record of success which we attribute to a comprehensive and integrated educational approach and the following fundamental principles that have guided our program since its inception in 1976.
- Recruitment of diverse candidates with strong research potential and a commitment to discovery
- Providing trainees with tailored mentorship teams and individual development plans to optimize their progression toward research independence
- Promoting multidisciplinary research through cohesive and collaborative faculty teams
- Leveraging unsurpassed institutional resources to promote trainee success
Program Goal
To equip a diverse cohort of trainees with all the tools needed to become successful independent investigators focused on improving the understanding of, and care for, people living with rheumatic diseases.
Program Aims
Our program is designed to provide trainees:
- a broad working knowledge of the biological and clinical aspects of rheumatic diseases
- essential familiarity with state-of-the-art scientific methodologies and analyses
- experience and confidence with all aspects of scientific communication
- strong roots in the ethical conduction of research and in embracing a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion
Scientific Themes
Our program focuses on four major scientific themes that align with the modern research landscape, which is focused on the pursuit of precision, patient-centric approaches to health and disease for the diverse populations living with rheumatic diseases. View our mentors by scientific them.
- Biologic Underpinnings of Clinical Heterogeneity
- Immunological Mechanisms of Disease
- Injury, Repair, and Fibrosis
- Patient Outcomes/Experience and Innovative Trials
Leadership
Our leadership team is comprised of well-established physician scientists and mentors, with Jason Knight, MD, PhD serving as Program Director, and J. Michelle Kahlenberg, MD, PhD and Dinesh Khanna, MD, MSc serving as Associate Program Directors. Meet the team.
Trainees
Current Trainees
- Lisa Abernathy-Close, PhD (2022-present)
- Bruna M. Scavuzzi, PhD (2020-present)
Past Trainees
2022
- Rachel S. Bergmans, MPH, PhD (2021-2022)
- Mikel Gurrea-Rubio, PhD (2019-2022)
- Alexis A. Holman, MD, JD (2020-2022)
- Meriah N. Moore, MD (2021-2022)
- Aaron L. Stubbs, MD (2020-2022)
2021
- David Roofeh, MD (2019-2021)
- Yomei Shaw, PhD (2020-2021)
2020
- Ramadan Ali, PhD (2018-2020)
- Phillip M. Rzeczycki, PhD (2018-2020)
2018
- Beth I. Wallace, MD (2016-2018)
- Amber Young, MD (2016-2018)
2017
- Wahida H. Ali, PhD (2014-2017)
- Pei-Suen (Eliza) Tsou, PhD (2014-2017)
2016
- Rajaie A. Namas, MBBCh (2014-2016)
- Donna Ray, PhD (2014-2016)
2015
- Smriti Mohan, MD (2013-2015)
2014
- Karen A. Esmonde-White, PhD (2011-2014)
- Jiaqi Fu, PhD (2013-2014)
- Matthew D. Morse, PhD (2013-2014)
2013
- Carmelo Carmona-Rivera, PhD (2011-2013)
- Gladis M. Walter, PhD (2012-2013)
2012
- Jason S. Knight, MD, PhD (2011-2012)
2011
- Alison M. Gizinski, MD (2010-2011)
- Tania C. Gonzalez-Rivera, MD (2010-2011)
- J. Michelle Kahlenberg, MD, PhD (2010-2011)
How to Apply
The Division of Rheumatology seeks to select applicants best prepared to fulfill the the goals of the division, including a longstanding focus on training physician scientists.
Prior Training and Career Level Requirements
Many program trainees will be physician scientists, MD/PhD, or MD (with opportunity to obtain a master’s degree during their time in the program). Other trainees will be PhD scientists who are interested in a career in rheumatic diseases research. Outstanding candidates who display strong research interest, but are without significant prior research experience are also given consideration. Candidates who are physicians will have no more than 20% clinical responsibilities during training.
How to Apply
Please send an email to [email protected] for information on how to apply.
Contact Us
For more information about our Scientist Training in Rheumatology Research Program, please contact:
Gail Quaderer
Research Administrator
Department of Internal Medicine
Division of Rheumatology
5520 MSRB I
Ann Arbor MI 48109
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 734-845-6241
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Well-Being
The Department of Internal Medicine (DOIM) Division of Rheumatology is committed to creating and cultivating a diverse and inclusive community that provides our faculty, learners, and staff with the opportunities and support they need to thrive. Visit the DOIM Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Well-Being to learn more.
Salary and Benefits
Learn about salary, benefits, and employment eligibility.
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