Interivew with Michael G. Sherenian, MD
What is the goal of your research?
The goal of my laboratory’s research is to determine the hemostatic system’s role in the inflammation seen within pediatric atopic dermatitis. In order to accomplish this goal, my laboratory uses several means of investigation that use human data, animal models, and ex vivo/in vitro assays.
What made you decide to go into medical research?
My interest in medical research began as a medical student when I worked closely with two inspiring physician scientists. After medical school I knew that I wanted to be involved with medical research, which led me to work on several different projects throughout my pediatric residency. Then during fellowship, I made the decision to focus my career on translational medical research. I saw the ability to link my research with clinical interests as a way to provide an additional level of care for our patients. Moreover, it is the ability of research to serve more patients than I alone can care for in clinic that drove me to pursue a career in medical research.
What are your future research and career goals?
Throughout the course of my career, I plan to investigate the interplay between the clotting and immune systems, with a focus on their impact on allergic disease pathogenesis. I view my research as being at the intersection of my desire to advance scientific knowledge and to improve patient care. Thus, I hope that one day my research can be used to generate novel therapeutics for allergic diseases that improve our patient’s quality of life.
How has / will the Faculty Development Award helped you in your career?
As a Faculty Development Award recipient, I will have additional funds to further investigate the link between atopic dermatitis and hemostasis. In addition, the prestige that comes with being a reward recipient will help me establish myself as an investigator at this early stage within my career.
Who are your mentors?
My primary mentor is Gurjit Khurana Hershey M.D., Ph.D. (Professor, CCHMC, Division of Asthma Research). Complementing Dr. Hershey’s expertise are Joseph Palumbo, MD (Professor, CCHMC, Comprehensive Thrombophilia Center), Stephen Waggoner PhD (Associate Professor, CCHMC, Division of Immunobiology), David Haslam, MD (Associate Professor, CCHMC, Division of Infectious Diseases), and Lisa Martin PhD (Professor, CCHMC, Division of Human Genetics). In addition to these formal mentors, I have many other mentors from each phase of my medical career that continue to inspire and advise me.