Researcher Spotlight: Merin Kalangara

What is your professional background? 
I am an allergist/immunologist by training and was in private practice for a few years before joining Emory in 2016. I currently serve as director of allergy and immunology at the Emory Clinic and associate program director for the allergy/immunology fellowship.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor? 
I work in the Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine. I am fortunate to have Dr. Frances Eun-Hyung Lee as my career and research mentor.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important? 
I have several research interests broadly related to drug allergy and asthma. I have collaborated with different specialties including ENT, Infectious Disease, Anesthesiology, and Pain Medicine, to optimize the use of antibiotics and other medications in the setting of drug allergy labels. I am also involved in various clinical trials for biologic therapies in asthma.

What do you like most about Emory? 
I am deeply appreciative of the support I have received at Emory as a junior faculty member; also, the collegiality and opportunities for collaboration with other disciplines.

What is your favorite movie or TV show? 
Any good murder mystery that keeps me on my toes.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Reading, exercise, travel, and quality time with my husband and two-year-old son.

What is a fun fact about you? 
I started writing poetry at the age of four.