Researcher Spotlight: Jeanie Park

What is your professional background?
I am a nephrologist and clinical specialist in hypertension. I also conduct patient-oriented research in autonomic physiology.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
I work in the Division of Renal Medicine. My mentors include Vito Campese and Holly Middlekauff in Los Angeles, and Arshed Quyyumi and Barbara Rothbaum at Emory. Jeff Sands has been my career mentor and advocate since I have been at Emory.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My integrative physiology research program studies sympathetic nervous system regulation in patients at increased risk for hypertension and cardiovascular disease, including those with chronic kidney disease and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our lab conducts basic mechanistic studies in humans, as well as clinical trials testing pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches to improve long-term cardiovascular risk in patients.

What do you like most about Emory?
The best thing about Emory is my colleagues. I came to Emory right after my fellowship, and my colleagues have supported me and helped me develop my career here over the last decade.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
I like all kinds of movies, especially science fiction like ‘Lord of the Rings.’

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy reading, cooking, music, Peloton, and spending time with my husband and twin daughters.

What is a fun fact about you?
I always thought I would be a pianist or a poet. Somehow, I ended up as a nephrologist!