Philip Kern, MD

Dr. Kern is Professor of Internal Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology and co-Director for the UK Center for Clinical and Translational Science. Dr. Kern’s research examines foundational mechanisms of the development of type 2 diabetes, with a particular emphasis on lipid and lipoprotein metabolism and the roles of exercise and obesity to modulate insulin resistance, particularly in fat and muscle. Current research targets the role of beige and brown fat, circadian rhythms, inflammation and changes in RNA structure. Dr. Kern’s research has been continuously funded by the NIH since 1986, he has coauthored over 200 research papers and he is a mentor to many. Dr. Kern is an elected member of the American Society for Clinical Investigation (ASCI) and has been honored at UK as a University Research Professor, and the William R. Willard Dean’s Recognition Award, for longstanding dedication to students and trainees.