By Xoel Cardenas, Sr. Communications Specialist, Office of the Vice President for Research
The University of Utah is a top tier research institution dedicated to innovation and discovery. Thanks to its students, faculty, staff, partners and community, the U — an R1 Institution for very high research activity — is home to some of the most impressive academic departments in the Nation.
One department that is a powerhouse of discovery, collaboration and innovation is the Department of Internal Medicine. From medical and research breakthroughs, to providing treatment for some of society’s challenging diseases, to educating the medical experts of tomorrow, Internal Medicine exemplifies the U’s dedication to helping make the local and global community a better place.
History of academic, clinical and innovative success
The department has a rich history — spanning over 80 years — of providing excellent care, valuable education, and innovative research in Utah. The faculty of Internal Medicine have directed life-sustaining and preventative research breakthroughs, including creating the artificial heart, artificial kidney, and dialysis. They’ve also discovered genes linked to breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and other life-changing diseases.
Internal Medicine is a destination care treatment center for many diseases, including cystic fibrosis, interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, multi-organ transplant, and more. Its clinicians provide both routine and lifesaving care to patients living in Utah and across six additional states.
When it comes to U academics, Internal Medicine plays a foundational role. It’s U of U Health’s largest clinical department, thanks to its impressive 12 divisions, over 700 faculty members, and more than 220 residents and fellows. The department has a large degree of engagement in education, comprising 20 percent of full-time employees and 16.6 percent of core educators at the U.
Research a key to Internal Medicine success
Internal Medicine’s excellence in clinical care and academics is well recognized, and research remains a core priority, driven by a growing faculty base and continued momentum in advancing groundbreaking discoveries.
“The Department of Internal Medicine has become a leader in research and innovation due to its commitment to advancing clinical care and scientific discovery,” said Adriana Callahan, PR & Communications Manager for the Department of Internal Medicine. “The department has a long history of outstanding work in areas such as hematology, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, epidemiology of infectious disease and health services research, to name a few.”
Internal Medicine’s success is attributed to its commitment, culture and environment for research excellence, understanding of the importance of the spectrum of translational research, highly collaborative approach, and the high caliber of its faculty.
“With access to cutting-edge facilities, a robust mentorship structure, and a focus on translating research to the next step towards clinical practice, the department is positioned for continued success,” said Callahan.
Commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration
Breakthroughs in research and medicine often require collaboration across disciplines. Internal Medicine exemplifies this spirit, fostering strong partnerships within its divisions, across departments, and with key institutions like the Huntsman Cancer Institute, VA Medical Center, and Intermountain Health. Its members actively engage with investigators in health sciences initiatives and other organizations to drive innovation and discovery.
Dr. Alfred Cheung, Professor & Chief, Nephrology & Hypertension; and Vice Chair of Research at the Department of Internal Medicine, says the department strongly believes in the power of team science and interdisciplinary collaborations.
“In addition to necessities and opportunities that arise during the course of research, we make deliberate efforts to explore opportunities for collaboration among subspecialties within our Department and with other departments on campus,” he said. “A major motivation for these deliberate efforts are our recognitions that the physiology and pathophysiology of organs are often interconnected. Furthermore, many other departments have expertise or technologies, such as basic science and imaging, that we do not have.”
Examples of the collaborations Internal Medicine have done include working with the Department of Biochemistry on the role of metabolic microenvironment in carcinogenesis and metabolic pathways for heart failure recovery; teaming up with the Department of Pathology on gut microbiome; and collaboration with College of Health on polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Interdisciplinary collaboration is at the heart of innovation in the Department of Internal Medicine.
“We create a dynamic environment where ideas can flourish by bringing together experts from various specialties,” said Callahan. “These collaborations allow us to approach problems from multiple angles, resulting in more comprehensive and holistic solutions. By bridging disciplines, we can leverage the strengths of multiple perspectives to accelerate progress.”
OVPR’s continued support of Internal Medicine
The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) is crucial in supporting Internal Medicine researchers by providing essential funding opportunities, advocacy, and key connections. Through programs like seed grants and facilitating industry partnerships, OVPR has enabled the department to secure funding for pioneering projects.
“The office helps researchers connect with external collaborators,” said Callahan. “This type of support allows our researchers to focus on what they do best: innovating in medicine.”
With its storied history and inspiring actions today, Internal Medicine looks toward the future, committed to continue elevating its societal impact for the benefit of Utahans and the world.
“Our researchers’ energy, collaborative, and entrepreneurial spirit sets Internal Medicine apart from other institutions and allows us to grow in unexpected ways,” said Dr. Nicole Frank, Research Development Director for the Department of Internal Medicine. “Over the next few years and beyond, the Department of Internal Medicine will continue to bring innovative solutions and discoveries that will bring hope for future generations.”
Those interested in becoming potential collaborators with the Department of Internal Medicine can contact Nicole Frank, Research Development Director, directly through email or by attending one of the department’s networking events, symposiums, or seminars.
“We’re always looking for new partners who share our passion for advancing medicine and improving patient care,” said Callahan.
To learn more about the Department of Internal Medicine, click here.