Dr. Ron Varghese Elected to the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation
The Miller School researcher’s notable work lies in cardio-metabolic investigations and understanding the metabolic changes associated with obstructive sleep apnea.
Clinical investigator Ron Varghese, M.D., assistant professor in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, has been elected for fellowship into the Southern Society for Clinical Investigation (SSCI).
The SSCI is a respected regional organization that promotes scientific research and supports faculty in academic medicine. Membership requires dedication to clinical or translational research, scholarship of merit and an unimpeachable reputation.
“As a clinical investigator, I am deeply honored to be elected to the fellowship of this esteemed society,” Dr. Varghese said. “Being a part of the SSCI will further bring together experts from diverse fields to advance both clinical care and research in various treatments, including cardiometabolic diseases.”
Metabolic Changes in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Dr. Varghese’s notable research lies in cardio-metabolic investigations. He is focusing on understanding the metabolic changes associated with obstructive sleep apnea and has an expanding portfolio of peer-reviewed journal articles on the topic.
“I have been very fortunate to undergo my medical and research training under the mentorship of exceptional clinical investigators in outstanding institutions both in India and the United States,” Dr. Varghese said. “I have also tried to improve my training and knowledge in this area by completing certification exams. I am currently a diplomate of both the American Board of Obesity Medicine and the American Board of Clinical Lipidology.”
The Department of Internal Medicine supported Dr. Varghese with a pilot award to study sex differences in cardiometabolic health for patients with sleep disorders. He also applied for a K12 award and plans to apply for a K23 award to improve cardiometabolic health in patients with sleep disorders.
Integrated Sleep-Endocrinology Clinic
As a fellow of the SSCI, Dr. Varghese will help mentor students, residents and fellows in clinical medicine and research. Additionally, he is participating in committees that focus on mentorship and support for early-career researchers.
Under the mentorship of Naresh Punjabi, M.D., Ph.D., professor, and Ernesto Bernal-Mizrachi, M.D., professor and chief, both in the Miller School’s Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Dr. Varghese has established an integrated sleep-endocrinology clinic.
The space is dedicated to providing clinical care for metabolic diseases, including diabetes mellitus, obesity and lipid disorders, in patients with sleep disorders. Dr. Varghese is working with clinical fellows from both endocrinology and gastroenterology during their rotations at the clinic. He’s hopeful these young investigators will improve their understanding of cardiometabolic disease during their training.
“Dr. Varghese exemplifies the spirit of academic medicine, blending clinical excellence with a deep commitment to mentorship and research,” Dr. Bernal-Mizrachi said. “His work in establishing an integrated sleep-endocrinology clinic reflects not only innovation but also a collaborative approach that enriches patient care and training opportunities. As a newly inducted fellow of the SSCI, I have no doubt he will continue to inspire and guide the next generation of physician-scientists.”
“We stand on the shoulder of giants, and I am very grateful for all my mentors and patients who have helped me gain knowledge in my journey of clinical medicine and research,” Dr. Varghese said. “I look forward to paying them back by advancing our knowledge and understanding in this field and by mentoring future clinical researchers in this area. My election to the SSCI fellowship is a tool I will use to achieve these goals.”
Tags: Division of Endocrinology Diabetes and Metabolism, Dr. Ron Varghese, endocrinology, mentoring