Dr. Joshua Pierce: Vernie A. Stembridge Scholarship Award in Pathology
Science has always fascinated Dr. Joshua Pierce, particularly the cellular and molecular basis of human physiology. His undergraduate interests led to a Ph.D. in molecular biology and, finally, a medical degree. As a pathologist, he looks forward to conducting clinical and translational research.
What this award means: “I have been extremely well supported by members of the Pathology Department during my Ph.D. and M.D. studies, and their further support through this award is very moving.”
Mentor comment: “Josh has worked with me on multiple services and, in each case, he is engaged in learning and acting as a team member. His background in basic science stands out and brings a different perspective to questions posed while we are working on cases. He has also been active in promoting the field of pathology among the medical students through his leadership in the Pathology Interest Group.” – Dr. Bret Evers, Assistant Professor of Pathology and Ophthalmology
Background and family: “I am from Lubbock, Texas, and am an only child. Both of my parents were employed by Texas Tech University. I have been happily married for 10 years.”
What led to your career path: “I have always been interested in the cellular and molecular basis of human physiology, which led me to an undergraduate degree in that subject and a Ph.D. in molecular biology. Continuing my career by studying the medical pathophysiology of disease is the natural progression of these interests.”
UTSW activities: “During my Ph.D. training I was involved with the STARS (Science Teacher Access to Resources at Southwestern) program and other high school and college mentoring opportunities.”
Surprising fact: “I love to exercise through indoor rock climbing.”
Future plans: “I matched to a pathology residency at UCLA. I look forward to becoming a pathologist and performing clinical/translational research.”
About the award: The award was established by friends and colleagues of Dr. Stembridge, a former Chair of Pathology who died in 2000. The $1,500 award is given to the most outstanding medical student whose performance in the sophomore pathology course was exemplary and who is interested in a pathology career.