Michelle A. Baum

Dr. Michelle A. Baum is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and serves as Co-Director of the Kidney Stone Program within the Division of Nephrology at Boston Children's Hospital. With extensive expertise in pediatric kidney disorders, she specializes in the diagnosis and management of complex kidney stone diseases, hyperoxaluria, and genetic kidney conditions in children.

Dr. Baum completed her undergraduate studies at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL (1987) followed by medical school at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago, IL (1989). She completed her pediatric internship and residency at Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago (1990-1992) and her fellowship in Pediatric Nephrology at Boston Children's Hospital (1996).

Dr. Baum's research focuses on the genetic basis of pediatric kidney stone diseases, particularly monogenic nephrolithiasis and hyperoxaluria. Her work explores the molecular mechanisms underlying calcium oxalate and cystine stone formation, with emphasis on identifying novel disease genes and developing targeted therapies. She is actively involved in clinical trials for innovative treatments like nedosiran for primary hyperoxaluria.

As Co-Director of the Kidney Stone Program, she leads efforts to improve diagnostic approaches for rare kidney stone disorders and develop comprehensive management strategies for children with complex stone disease. Her research integrates genomic medicine with clinical practice to advance precision nephrology care for pediatric patients.

Dr. Baum's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on the genetic underpinnings of pediatric kidney stone diseases, with particular emphasis on monogenic forms of nephrolithiasis. Her work spans from basic genetic discovery to clinical applications, with significant contributions to primary hyperoxaluria research including international efforts to improve access to management and clinical trials of novel therapies like nedosiran.

Professional Recognition:

• Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics in Nephrology
• Certified in Therapeutic Pharmaceutical Agents (TPA)

As an active researcher and clinician, Dr. Baum mentors fellows and junior faculty in pediatric nephrology. She has been involved in numerous clinical trials and research initiatives, including the UMPIRE study on spina bifida and kidney function, and the PHYOX clinical trials for primary hyperoxaluria. Her work has been supported by various research grants focusing on genetic kidney disorders and innovative therapeutic approaches.

Dr. Baum co-directs the multidisciplinary Kidney Stone Program at Boston Children's Hospital, collaborating closely with the Kidney Genetics Clinic and participating in the broader Nephrology Division's research initiatives, including studies on congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract and the pediatric continuous renal replacement therapy registry.