Fellows

First Year

Indira Acharya, MD

Medical school: National Medical College, Tribhuvan University, Nepal
Residency: MedStar Health, Internal Medicine Residency Program, Baltimore, MD
Research interests: Vasculitis, IgG4 related disease

With my background in ENT surgery, I have always been intrigued by the underlying causes of early sensorineural hearing loss and chronic rhinosinusitis that are resistant to conventional treatments. I was amazed when I discovered that these issues are often linked to autoimmune processes. I like the cerebral reasoning and meticulous thought process involved in diagnosing and treating various autoimmune diseases. It feels like solving a mystery – once the correct diagnosis is made and treatments begins, it is incredibly rewarding to see patients return to their baseline lives. Additionally, I am fascinated by the cutting-edge treatments that are now available to alleviate the unexplained symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

In my leisure moments, I like spending quality time with my family, playing with my kid, experimenting with new recipes and exploring new travel destinations.

Pla Waitayangkoon, MD

Medical school: Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
Residency: MetroWest Medical Center, Tufts School of Medicine, MA 
Research interests: GCA/PMR, CPPD

My passion for rheumatology began in medical school after I cared for a lupus patient who passed away from severe complications at a time when treatment options were limited. That experience made me want to learn more about autoimmune diseases because there is still so much we do not know and so much room for progress. This motivated me to come to the US, where I could gain experience with more advanced therapies and research opportunities.

In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities, discovering local cafés and exploring diverse cuisines.

Second Year

Omar Ahmed, MD

Medical school: Saba University School of Medicine, Dutch Caribbean, Netherlands
Residency: Charleston Area Medical Center/West Virginia University, Charleston, West Virginia
Research interests: RA, SLE and vasculitis

My decision to pursue rheumatology has emerged from years of practicing internal medicine. I am drawn to the field by the critical thinking required to diagnose and treat patients, the challenge in practicing the art of medicine and the ability to positively impact patients’ lives and build meaningful relationships. I enjoy how the discipline of rheumatology intersects with internal medicine, its various sub-specialties and musculoskeletal medicine. I have had the honor of deploying twice with the United States Air Force and value service before self. As I continue forward with my career, I look forward to working on behalf of my patients to achieve the best outcomes.

In my personal life, I have many hobbies: cast iron cooking, baking, photography, DIY projects.

Emily Campbell, MD

Undergraduate: University of South Carolina
Medical school: Medical University of South Carolina
Residency: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
Research interests: Medical education, dietary and lifestyle interventions

I was drawn to rheumatology because it is a field of active discovery. We are constantly learning more about the diseases we treat and the treatment options available to us. I also enjoy forming long term relationships with my patients and working together to develop treatment plans best suited to their unique circumstances.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy cooking, spending time outside, and I am ever so slowly learning to play the bass guitar.