“My love of endocrinology started during my first year of med school. All those feedback loops — I was hooked.” – Jen Kirby
I was born in Las Cruces, New Mexico, but moved to suburban Maryland when I was five. I am an only child, so a lot of our family life revolved around my activities, including year-round competitive swimming until I was a senior in high school. I went to the University of Maryland and then worked at the National Institutes of Health for two years prior to coming to UVA for the MD-PhD program. I credit my parents for encouraging me to pursue my interests, no matter where they led me.
Why medicine? Why endocrinology?
In my junior year in college I took a cancer biology class that turned me on to the idea of medicine. At that point, I had planned to go to graduate school to get my PhD. One of my classmates, a wise nurse who was doing post-bach work to get into medical school, suggested that I should get a combined MD-PhD degree. I’m so glad I took her advice. My love of endocrinology started during my first year of med school, in the Endocrine section of physiology. All those feedback loops — I was hooked.
What brought you to UVA?
I did my MD/PhD, residency and fellowship at UVA. When I interviewed for the MD-PhD program, I remember walking away from my interview day thinking this would be a great place to train. I felt that way when I interviewed for residency and fellowship as well.
Proudest achievement outside the professional realm?
Finishing a 50K ultramarathon last year. [See photo, left!]
What are you usually doing in your spare time?
We have an active family life. My husband, Jeff Lysiak, is a researcher in the Department of Urology. We have two boys, Thomas and Henry, who play travel hockey, and Jeff and I are avid runners.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
I would love to learn to play the mandolin by the time I turn 50 — which means I better hurry up!
What’s one thing you always have in your fridge?
Half & half for my coffee. I gave up the sugar, but I can’t give up the half & half.
Jennifer with husband Jeff and sons Thomas and Henry — at the skating rink!
Where did you go on your last vacation?
Our family went to Jamaica for a week last November. It was a completely different experience than any of the trips we’ve done as a family. Both of our boys keep bugging us to go back.
Words to live by?
Live with grace and appreciation. As a doctor, I am keenly aware how quickly one’s health can change. Everyday, I try to remember how lucky I am.
What about you would surprise us?
I’m a diehard Washington Caps fan and I loved hockey even before I met my Canadian husband.
Filed Under: News and Notes
Tags: Endocrinology