John Williams
About John Williams
John Williams is a Professor of Pediatrics and Microbiology & Molecular Genetics at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, where he also serves as Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. He specializes in the molecular epidemiology of respiratory viruses and leads research initiatives focused on pediatric infectious diseases.
Work at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
John Williams has served as a Professor of Pediatrics and Microbiology & Molecular Genetics at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh since 2015. In this role, he also holds the position of Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. His work involves leading the Institute of Infection, Inflammation, & Immunity in Children (i4Kids), which focuses on pediatric infectious diseases. Williams has been instrumental in coordinating the hospital's response to the COVID-19 pandemic through the COVID-19 Medical Response Office.
Education and Expertise
John Williams earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University, completing his studies from 1990 to 1994. He has extensive training in pediatrics, having completed a Pediatrics Residency Program at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh from 1994 to 1997. He further specialized in Pediatric Infectious Diseases through a fellowship at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine from 2000 to 2003. His educational background also includes a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Virginia.
Background
Before joining UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, John Williams worked at Vanderbilt University as an Associate Professor from 2003 to 2015. His academic journey began with general studies at Northern Virginia Community College, followed by a focus on biology at the University of Virginia. He completed his Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship from 1976 to 1978, laying the foundation for his career in pediatric medicine.
Research Focus and Contributions
John Williams specializes in the molecular epidemiology of respiratory viruses, contributing to the understanding of virus spread and mutation. His research includes basic and translational studies on human metapneumovirus, aiming to enhance knowledge of its entry, pathogenesis, and immunity. His work is significant in the field of pediatric infectious diseases, addressing critical health issues affecting children.