Thomas A Buchanan

Thomas A. Buchanan, MD, is a University Professor of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Physiology and Biophysics at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. He serves as Vice Dean for Research and Director of the Southern California Clinical and Translational Science Institute (SC CTSI), as well as Director of the Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute (DORI). His research focuses on the pathogenesis, genetics, and prevention of gestational and type 2 diabetes in Hispanic populations. He has led groundbreaking studies defining metabolic pathways and successfully preventing type 2 diabetes through interventions like pioglitazone. Buchanan has secured over $180 million in NIH funding and pioneered clinical research infrastructure at USC.

Education:

• M.D. from University of Iowa (Iowa City)
• Internal Medicine Residency at University of Iowa
• Fellowship in Endocrinology and Metabolism at Northwestern University

Research Interests: Dr. Buchanan’s work emphasizes diabetes prevention, genetic factors influencing metabolic disorders, and disparities in Hispanic health. He investigates β-cell dysfunction, insulin resistance, and the impact of environmental exposures (e.g., PFAS) on diabetes risk. His clinical trials focus on interventions like exercise and pharmacotherapy to improve metabolic outcomes.

Publications: His recent work spans genetic discoveries in diabetes, multi-omics analyses in Hispanic populations, and translational studies on gestational diabetes outcomes. Key themes include metabolic regulation, environmental influences, and precision medicine.

Awards:

• University Professor of Medicine (2023)
• Associates Award for Creativity in Research (2017)
• Multiple international lectureships and leadership roles in diabetes organizations

Advising & Grants: He has mentored numerous researchers and led teams securing NIH awards, including a $56.8M Clinical and Translational Science Award. His SC CTSI supports translational research across Southern California.

Labs/Teams: Directs the DORI and SC CTSI, fostering collaborative research in diabetes, obesity, and clinical translation.