I am a physician scientist in the Division of Rheumatology. My primary interest is the role of the innate immune system in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases.

It has been known for decades that interferon is upregulated in many of these diseases, including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Sjogren's Syndrome. I am interested in understanding the identity of specific endogenous nucleic acids, and sensor-ligand interactions, that are responsible for eliciting this response.

The organization and hierarchy of the cytosolic dsDNA sensing (CDS) system is a related interest. The CDS system includes numerous individual sensors (>10 and counting), yet the manner in which these sensors interact (or compete) with one another has yet to be fully defined.

Along with my laboratory work, I have a clinical interest in vasculitis, and serve as Director of our Division's Vasculitis Center. 

My training has included:
Dartmouth College - BA
Dartmouth Medical School - MD
Oregon Health & Science University - Internal Medicine
Johns Hopkins - Rheumatology