The Medical Scientist Training Program — which offers a dual MD/PhD degree — recently announced new additions to the team, while a familiar face is taking on a new role.
Emily Sims, MD, transitioned from MSTP associate director to co-director on July 1. Patrick Sheets, PhD, and Brian DeBosch, MD, PhD, also came on board as new associate directors.
Sims, a pediatric endocrinologist and physician-scientist at Riley Hospital for Children, focuses on early identification and intervention in Type 1 diabetes, aiming to improve outcomes and reduce the burden of lifelong insulin therapy. Her work spans basic science, clinical trials, and translational research.
Sims has been a dedicated MSTP member since the days when Raghu Mirmira, MD, PhD, served as chair of the screening committee. She is passionate about mentoring and looks forward to continuing to grow the program alongside its exceptional students and team.
Outside of work, Sims enjoys running, arts and crafts, and karaoke with her husband (also a physician at Riley and IU Health) and their three energetic boys.
Sheets, DeBosch take on associate director roles
MSTP is thrilled to welcome Sheets and DeBosch as associate directors, where their combination of unique expertise and dedication to mentoring will be instrumental in shaping the future of the physician-scientist trainees.
Sheets, whose mentoring focus will be in the graduate years, arrives with a rich background in pharmacology and toxicology, where his research focused on the neural circuits of pain processing. He earned his degrees from Purdue University and Indiana University School of Medicine, followed by postdoctoral training at Northwestern University.
Sheets is passionate about mentoring and excited to support students during their graduate years, helping them grow into independent researchers and leaders. Outside the lab, he enjoys cooking, strength training, pickleball, golfing, traveling, and reading. Sheets is a die-hard fan of the Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, and Purdue Boilermakers, and enjoys exploring topics like Stoicism, psychology, leadership, and history.
DeBosch, who will focus his mentoring in MD/PhD career development, comes with a strong foundation in molecular cell biology and clinical training from Washington University. His research explores liver metabolism, fasting, and circadian rhythms—critical areas for understanding metabolic health.
DeBosch is deeply committed to mentoring physician-scientists and looks forward to guiding students through the challenges and rewards of dual-degree training.
Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, cooking, and cheering on his daughters in swimming and running. DeBosch has a lifelong love of music and has played saxophone in various ensembles, with tastes ranging from hip-hop to classical.
MSTP looks ahead
The MSTP leadership team is composed of dedicated physicians and scientists who bring a powerful blend of clinical insight, research excellence, and a deep commitment to mentorship.
Ben Gaston, MD, continues to provide steady and visionary leadership, drawing on years of experience guiding trainees and shaping the program’s strategic direction. Sims, Sheets, and DeBosch bring fresh perspectives, deep expertise, and a shared passion for mentoring.
Together, they represent a dynamic and collaborative force that is well-positioned to support the evolving needs of MSTP trainees and foster a vibrant, inclusive community. They will make a lasting impact on the MSTP community and the careers of their trainees.
