Researcher Spotlight: Joseph Kellogg Research Project Manager – Division of Infectious Diseases

What is your professional background?
I graduated from Penn State and worked in EMS before getting my MPH in epidemiology from Emory. Since graduating in 2020 I have worked as a Research Project Manager for Emory. The projects I have managed have mainly been CDC-funded work in the non-acute care setting, especially in nursing homes. My work has focused on MDROs, COVID, and nursing home staff patterns.

Which division do you work in, and who is your mentor? 
I work in the Division of Infectious Diseases. My mentors are Dr. Scott Fridkin and Dr. Jesse Jacob, although I have learned a lot from countless others along the way!

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important?
The research I’ve managed often involves working closely with nursing homes. MDRO transmission, infectious disease kinetics, and staffing patterns are not researched as thoroughly in the non-acute care setting. Nursing homes and dialysis centers are key locations of care for many of the patients who are most ill in our medical system, and it is important that we better understand how infectious diseases may impact their care in these places.

What do you like most about Emory?
Emory is one of the top research institutes in the country, especially in the southeastern U.S. I take pride in my work, knowing that it has a chance to make a real impact on the population I’m helping to study.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
If I had to pick just one (I have to pick just one), I would have to say “Star Wars”!

What do you like to do in your spare time?
When it’s nice outside, I like going to Braves games and playing with my dogs. I also like watching soccer, football, and playing video games with my fiancé.

What is a fun fact about you?
My first car was a totaled Jeep Wrangler that I rebuilt, lifted, and then spent way too much time and money four wheeling with it in the woods.