Thomas J. Schmidt
Professor
Assistant Dean
University of Iowa College of Medicine
6-452 Bowen Science Building Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
Iowa City, Iowa USA
Phone: 319-335-7847
Fax: 319-335-7330
Email: thomas-schmidt@uiowa.edu
Education and Professional Experience:
University of Delaware, B.A.
Cornell University, M.A.
Cornell University, Ph.D.
Postdoctoral research positions held at the National Cancer Institute (NIH) in Bethesda and at the Fels Research Institute at the Temple University School of Medicine in Philadelphia. Faculty member since 1983 in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at the Carver College of Medicine at The University of Iowa. Recipient of several university and collegiate teaching awards and the College of Medicine Faculty Servive Award. Currently serves as the Assistant Dean in the Office of Student Affairs and Curriculum. Participant in Harvard Macy Program for Leaders in Medical Education in 1999 and invited Harvard Macy faculty member in 2007 and 2008. Previous member of the Education Committee and Careers in Physiology Committee of the American Physiological Society. Previously served on the Board of Directors of the International Association of Medical Science Educators.
Scholarly Interest:
Dr. Schmidt's scientific research has focusd on the mode of action of adrenocorticosteroids, including glucocorticoids and minerlaocorticoids, at the cellular and molecular levels. Most recently, he and his collaborators have investigated the physiolological role and hormonal regulation of a key enzyme, 11 beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, in glucocorticoid target tissues including the brain and lungs. This enzyme, which catalyzes the metabolism of active cortisol to inactive cortisone, regulates tissue sensitivity to glucocorticoid hormones. The expression of this enzyme appears to have implications in terms of lung development and induction of pulmonary surfactant.
Dr. Schmidt has also played a significant role in medical education at the Carver College of Medicine, where he holds the Dr. Harold A. Myers Professorship in Medical Education (Basic Sciences). He currently serves as the Co-Curriculum Director for the second semester and as a Co-Course Director for the Human Organ Systems Course (integrated physiology and histology); and Chairman of the Medical Arts and Sciences committee. His interests in medical education include: interactive classrooms; computerized testing; case-based learning; cultural competency and professionalism.
Personal Background:
Born and raised in Haddonfield, New Jersey, a colonial town located near Philadelphia. Enjoys travel, photography, art, and gardening. Also enjoys volunteer work at the Ronald McDonald House of Iowa City.