Andres J. Acosta

Andres J. Acosta, M.D., Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He serves as the Delaney Family Director of the Nutrition Obesity Research Program (2024) and is a Consultant in the Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology within the Department of Internal Medicine.

His educational background includes:

• MD from Universidad San Francisco de Quito (Magna Cum Laude)
• Ph.D. in Physiology and Pharmacology from University of Florida
• Clinical Fellowship in Gastroenterology and Hepatology from Mayo Clinic
• Residency in Internal Medicine from University of Florida

Dr. Acosta's research focuses on gastrointestinal physiology and the complex mechanisms of food intake regulation. His laboratory utilizes a multidisciplinary approach combining genetics, physiology, pharmacology, proteomics, metabolomics, and gastrointestinal and brain imaging to understand obesity and develop targeted treatments. He leads the Precision Medicine for Obesity Lab which aims to move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches by identifying obesity-related phenotypes that respond differently to treatments.

His work has significant implications for patient care, as he works to 'identify the right therapy for the right patient, minimizing side effects' in obesity treatment. Dr. Acosta considers obesity 'this century's health epidemic' and aims to ultimately cure it through his research.

Notable awards and honors include:

• Delaney Family Director, Nutrition Obesity Research Program, Mayo Clinic (2024)
• Early Career Innovator Award, Medical Excellence Capital and Mayo Clinic (2024)
• 40 Under 40 Award - Physician, Scientist, Entrepreneur (2020)
• Tekne Award, Healthcare Division (2020)
• Gerstner Career Development Award (2018)

Dr. Acosta is actively involved in professional organizations including the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), where he chairs the Obesity, Metabolism and Nutrition Section. He serves on various Mayo Clinic committees related to obesity research and treatment, and collaborates with his mentor Michael Camilleri, M.D. on pharmacotherapy and pharmacogenomics of obesity.