New Investigator Kim Scarsi, Pharm.D.

This profile is part of a series to highlight the researchers who will be honored at a ceremony for UNMC’s 2016 Scientist Laureate, Research Leadership, Distinguished Scientist and New Investigator Award recipients.

• Name: Kim Scarsi, Pharm.D.
• Title: Associate professor of pharmacy practice, College of Pharmacy
• Joined UNMC: November 2013
• Hometown: Rapid City, S.D.

Research focus:
HIV pharmacotherapy

The goal of my research is to optimize medication therapy for patients living with HIV. The focus of my research is influenced by my work in low- and middle-income countries, where there are unique issues affecting women living with HIV, as well as men and women who are co-infected with HIV and tuberculosis (TB).

My research will make a difference in the lives of patients living with HIV and TB by providing evidence that can be used to optimize medication therapy for people throughout the world.

The best advice I’ve ever been given is to apply this quote from Margaret Mead to your local and global community: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Three things you may not know about me

• Thanks to my parents’ encouragement, I am a first-generation college graduate.
• I can’t find my way around a kitchen, so I’m fortunate to have a husband who is an amazing amateur chef.
• We lived in Chicago for 14 years before moving to Omaha, so we are diehard Cubs and Bears fans. At least this was a good year for one of the two teams!