Researcher Spotlight: Georgia Davis

What is your professional background?
I grew up in Colorado and completed my undergraduate studies in molecular biology and biochemistry at the University of Colorado Boulder, then moved to Philadelphia for medical school at Drexel University. I completed my internal medicine residency at Case Western Reserve University/University Hospitals in Cleveland and endocrinology fellowship training at Emory, and then joined the division as faculty.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor?
I am an assistant professor in the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids and my mentors are Dr. Guillermo Umpierrez and Dr. Limin Peng.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important? 
My research interests have involved inpatient clinical diabetes trials examining the role of hyperglycemia in the development of hospital complications, especially in minority populations at increased risk for experiencing poor diabetes-related outcomes and diabetic emergencies. I have experience working with clinical trials and multiple collaborative retrospective database analyses investigating the effects of stress hyperglycemia on hospital complications. My current research is supported by NIDDK to investigate perioperative stress hyperglycemia with the use of diabetes technology. Some of my clinical and research focus has shifted to the inpatient implementation of diabetes technology during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to research focusing on diabetes disparities, I lead clinical efforts dedicated to type 1 diabetes management and technology use at the Grady Diabetes Center.

What do you like most about Emory?
Like many colleagues have mentioned before, I think one of Emory’s greatest strengths is its collaborative environment. I am also grateful for the opportunity to work at Grady, focusing on clinical and research endeavors aimed at improving care for those in need and addressing disparities in health care.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
‘Jeopardy’ and ‘Wheel of Fortune’…since childhood.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am currently attempting to recover my skills as a classical pianist. I also enjoy repurposing and reviving antique furniture/treasures.

What is a fun fact about you?
I wasn’t born in Georgia, but my best friend’s name is Savannah.