Dr. Pak is interested in promoting health and understanding the underlying mechanisms of symptoms and disease. Dr. Pak completed her undergraduate, graduate (MS, MTR), and PhD at the University of Pennsylvania. She conducted post-doctoral research funded by an NIH K99/R00 in Sleep Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine, and published findings showing positive airway pressure (PAP) usage prevents increases in adhesion molecules observed after two years. Prior to joining Emory, she was a tenure-track assistant professor at Yale University. Her work as a lead and coauthor has been published in journals such as the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sleep Medicine Reviews, Sleep Medicine, International Journal of Obesity-Nature (London), Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, and SLEEP.

Briefly, tell us about a research project you’re working on...

At the moment, I am working on projects relating to understanding the mechanisms of sleepiness in sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease. The findings of this research will provide insight into the underlying cause of sleepiness symptoms in sleep apnea and risk for cardiovascular disease.

What is one thing you hope your work can offer humanity by the end of your career?

I hope my research findings will be impactful in identifying novel treatments to improve quality of life and disease.

If you could go back in time and offer yourself some advice early in your career, what would you say?

If I could go back in time and offer myself advice in my career, I would suggest 3 things: a) find a passionate mentor who has a track record of mentoring success, b) establish a strong network via collaboration and c) be persistent.

What do you enjoy most about being at Emory Nursing?

It is a privilege to have the opportunity to educate students and see them flourish. Emory also distinguishes itself in being a highly collaborative and supportive environment, which is invaluable in advancing the science and improving health outcomes.