David Karp

David Karp, M.D., Ph.D. serves as Professor and Chief of the Division of Rheumatic Diseases within the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center's School of Medicine. He specializes clinically in systemic lupus erythematosus, spondyloarthropathy, and complex autoimmune disorders.

His academic journey began with dual bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and biological sciences from MIT, followed by combined M.D./Ph.D. training at Washington University in St. Louis (cellular and integrative biology). Clinical training included residency/fellowship at Barnes Jewish Hospital and NIH immunogenetics fellowship.

Dr. Karp's research program investigates immune system mechanisms with emphasis on pre-clinical immunity transitions—from healthy states to asymptomatic activation and ultimately symptomatic autoimmune disease. This work has generated over 100 peer-reviewed publications and international conference presentations.

Key honors include:

• Fellow, American College of Rheumatology
• Fellow, American College of Physicians
• Multiple D Magazine Best Doctors listings
• Texas Monthly Super Doctor recognition

Administrative leadership encompasses chairing UT Southwestern's Institutional Review Board and serving on the Immunology Program Membership Committee. He currently contributes to national initiatives as a member of the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute's Health Care Worker Prophylaxis Against COVID-19 Steering Committee and previously served on Arthritis Foundation state/regional boards.