Researcher Spotlight: James Steinberg

What is your professional background?
I did my medical training at Emory and infectious diseases training at Northwestern, then returned to Atlanta and joined the Emory faculty in 1989. I have spent most of my Emory career at Emory University Hospital Midtown and served as associate program director for the DOM training program and as a hospital epidemiologist. I am currently the chief medical officer at EUHM and have tried to bridge my administrative, academic, and quality improvement roles.

In what division do you work, and who is your mentor? 
I am in the Division of Infectious Diseases and am at the stage of my career where my mentees have become my mentors. Likely to their surprise, I consider Jesse Jacob and Nadine Rouphael my mentors.

Briefly describe your research. Why is it important? 
Most of my research has focused on the prevention of health care associated infections (HAIs). After initially focusing on tracking and accurately measuring HAIs, particularly those caused by antibiotic resistant pathogens, I embraced the quality improvement focus on reducing the impact of these infections. I was fortunate to be on the team that led to Emory’s funding and designation by the CDC as a Prevention Epicenter.

What do you like most about Emory? 
The people with whom I work, who overcome considerable obstacles to make the world a better place.

What is your favorite movie or TV show?
“Casablanca.” I just think it’s the best and I drive my family nuts by reminding them.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
I read and explore topics as my curiosity directs. Playing Scrabble is our family passion. I’m also physically active and enjoy doing anything that raises my pulse.

What is a fun fact about you? 
I am “ordained” and officiated the wedding of a former Emory faculty member last year. My services are available to others in the DOM at no cost.