Researcher Spotlight: Russell Kempker

What is your professional background? 
After undergraduate training at the University of Florida and medical school at the University of Miami, I migrated up north to Emory where I have been ever since 2004. I completed residency in internal medicine, fellowship in infectious diseases, and the Emory Master of Science in Clinical Research Program before becoming a faculty member in infectious diseases. While I may not meet the definition of being an “Emoroid,” I have been at Emory now for quite some time and feel fortunate this is where I landed. 

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor? 
I am an associate professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases. My main mentor is Dr. Henry Blumberg, who has been providing me excellent mentorship ever since my second year of internal medicine residency in 2005. I have also been fortunate to be surrounded by a team of co-mentors and colleagues who have helped me along in my career. 

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important? 
I sometimes say my area of research is “all things related to tuberculosis,” as I have enjoyed and had the opportunity to be involved in many areas of clinical and translational research in tuberculosis. Some of my main areas of focus include 1) studying the target site pharmacokinetics of anti-tuberculosis drugs included into lung tissue and cerebrospinal fluid; 2) understanding the clinical impact of cavitary disease on tuberculosis treatment outcomes; and 3) building research capacity and infrastructure to conduct impactful tuberculosis research in Global Health settings including the countries of Georgia and Ethiopia. Through a multifaceted approach, the goal of these efforts is to reduce the disease burden and suffering from tuberculosis which in the pre-COVID days was the leading cause of infectious diseases related mortality worldwide. 

What do you like most about Emory? 
The diversity of people and the myriad of opportunities available. Even though I have been here for some quite some time, I am constantly learning of — and amazed by — the fascinating and important work being carried out by Emory faculty. I also appreciate how Emory is supportive of new ideas and initiatives. 

What is your favorite movie or TV show? 
This is a tough one. Some of my favorite recent series’ I have binged during the pandemic include “The Expanse” and a throwback, “Freaks and Geeks.”

What do you like to do in your spare time?
Anything outdoors including running/cycling, hiking, and more recently, gardening, which I have found is a good way to get our four-year-old to try more foods! Cooking and spending time with family are everyday favorites. 

What is a fun fact about you? 
I have hiked the beginning and end of the Appalachian trail, and hope one day to conquer the whole thing.