Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’ve been at UVA for nearly 2 years since completing fellowship in medical oncology and hematology at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas. I take care of patients with gastrointestinal cancers with a particular interest in early phase clinical trials and developmental therapeutics.
Why medicine?
I chose to become a medical oncologist because I find the field so clinically and intellectually satisfying. Clinically, I am able to develop meaningful, longitudinal relationships with patients and their families. Scientifically, there is a tremendous opportunity to participate in the development and translation of new therapies to patients.
What brought you to Charlottesville?
I was an undergraduate down the road at W&L and loved my time in Virginia. So after years of moving around the northeast/southwest, I was excited to come back. Charlottesville was an appealing place to live and so far my family and I have loved it here.
What excites you about your work?
I love blending clinical care of patients with new ideas/approaches to try to improve current standards. Typically, this means enrolling patients on therapeutic clinical trials. I have also been able to collaborate with colleagues in Engineering and Data Science, and really enjoy thinking about how to improve medicine from a non-medical perspective.
Proudest / greatest achievement outside the professional realm?
My kids – they amaze and impress me everyday.
Next life?
I come from a long-line of engineers in my family and if I wasn’t taking care of patients, I’d probably be programming.
What are you usually doing in your spare time?
My kids are 2 and 5, so when I’m home it’s usually play time. We also enjoy exploring the nearby nature trails and activities.
How did you meet your partner?
My wife (Katie) and I met at W&L and we’ve been together ever since!
Favorite vacation/activity spot?
We recently took a beach vacation in Mexico and had a great time.
Best advice anyone ever gave you?
Be nice. This may seem obvious, but medicine and research are team sports and people won’t do their best if they don’t like/want to work together.
What about you would surprise us?
I worked (briefly) for Google on a programming project to improve their translation website before starting medical school. It was a cool experience.
Filed Under: News and Notes
Tags: April 2019 Newsletter, April Medicine Matters Newsletter, faculty, Hematology, oncology, profile, profiles