Researcher Spotlight: Rosette Chakkalakal

What is your professional background? 
I earned my MD at the University of Miami and completed my MSc in health research at Yale School of Medicine. Many may remember me as an internal medicine resident and chief resident here at Emory University Hospital. Since my residency days, I have been a postdoctoral fellow in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Clinical Scholars Program and then an assistant professor at Vanderbilt School of Medicine.

Who is your mentor?
Dr. Mohammed K. Ali. I first met Dr. Ali while I was a chief resident at Emory University Hospital through the Emory Global Diabetes Research Center. I began collaborating with him more regularly a few years ago through my research evaluating implementation of the CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program. Since that time, Dr. Ali has been an exceptional mentor to me in diabetes translational research and implementation science.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My research focuses on reducing the burden of type 2 diabetes in high-risk populations. I have evaluated weight management for the prevention of type 2 diabetes among women with a history of gestational diabetes and implementation of the National Diabetes Prevention Program in diverse settings. I have also conducted secondary analyses of large datasets (AHRQ’s Healthcare Utilization Project, PCORI’s National Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network, State Birth Certificate Data) to better understand health disparities and healthcare utilization among patients with prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic conditions. These analyses help me develop/adapt lifestyle modification interventions and healthcare system innovations to better meet the needs of the communities they are designed to serve.

What do you like most about Emory?
The spirit of collaboration throughout the institution; the diversity of the Emory community; and the commitment to health equity in research, patient care, and education.

What is your favorite movie or TV show? 
The original “Gilmore Girls” series is still my favorite TV show!

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I really enjoy being outdoors whether it’s for a run, a hike, or even just a walk with my dog.

What is a fun fact about you? 
I discovered a love for gardening during the pandemic but haven’t been able to try much outside of containers just yet. Hoping to step up to garden beds in the Spring!