Researcher Spotlight: Dong Li

What is your professional background? 
I began my career as a research associate at Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. While there, I used advanced Computed Tomography (CT) imaging technologies to improve the diagnosis of coronary artery disease by providing a comprehensive assessment of the heart. I stayed on as faculty for a CTSA grant (Clinical and Translational Science Awards) to study the machine learning-based novel algorithm for bone mineral density (BMD) assessment from low-resolution chest CT scans. I was then recruited to Emory as assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Hospital Medicine, where I serve as a member of the hospital medicine research team, playing an active role in both collaborating on and leading independent research, including project/program conceptualization, and development.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
I am an assistant professor in the Division of Hospital Medicine. Dr. Daniel P. Hunt is my mentor.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
My research focuses on using artificial intelligence (AI) to uncover hidden insights into clinical decision-making, precise diagnosis, and patients’ self-management, particularly in the field of cardiovascular disease risk reclassification, by merging different data sources, including clinical epidemiology, medical imaging, and public health, as well as electronic health records. Furthermore, my research focuses on understanding the progression of early-onset type 2 diabetes, which can be easily ignored but is increasingly prevalent worldwide, particularly for adolescents in developing countries.

What do you like most about Emory?
Emory’s academic eminence is rooted in a culture that values diversity and inclusion. At Emory, it is easier to find an intellectual and collaborative community.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
My favorite TV show is ‘Friends.’ I love to watch it over and over – the friendships, the characters, everything about it represents life.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy listening to classical music. Maybe this is a coincidence, but to me, classical music has a remarkable capacity to inspire.

What is a fun fact about you?
When I moved to the U.S., I failed my driving test several times due to the different meaning of ‘right of way’ between the U.S. and my homeland.