Rheumatology Research

An educational program for Lupus warriors and their caregivers.

For most physicians, learning to recognize swollen joints begins in the classroom. Students study anatomy, learn examination techniques, observe experienced clinicians, and gradually gain experience examining patients during medical school and residency. For Ibtissam Gad, MD, a clinical assistant professor in Michigan Medicine's Division of Rheumatology, one limitation stood out. Learners often had relatively few opportunities to practice distinguishing subtle swelling by touch, and asking patients whose joints were already painful to undergo repeated examinations wasn't ideal for anyone involved.

In the latest episode of the Well-Being at Michigan Medicine podcast, host and Chief Well-Being Officer Elizabeth Harry, M.D., is joined by Seetha Monrad, M.D., Associate Dean for Medical Student Education, and Erin McKean, M.D., Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, to discuss how Michigan Medicine is creating a learning environment where students can succeed without compromising high standards.

Susan Murphy, Sc.D., OTR, FAOTA, a professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation and internal medicine, and research professor in the Institute of Gerontology, has been appointed faculty chair-elect for women’s careers in the Medical School. The chair-elect is one of several Medical School roles that focus on the advancement — and overall thriving — of women pursuing careers in academic medicine and science at Michigan Medicine. Murphy will become chair-elect in January 2027, serve as faculty chair in 2028-29, and after her term is complete, she will serve in an advisory role as post-chair in 2030-31.

Research and clinical guidance from Ora Singer, MD, MS, is helping raise awareness of giant cell arteritis (GCA), a serious inflammatory disease that can lead to permanent vision loss if not diagnosed and treated quickly.

The University of Michigan was proudly represented at the 5th Annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition between the University of Michigan and the University of Minnesota, held on May 13, 2026.