We are privileged again to present a faculty spotlight from general internal medicine. We believe you will be intrigued reading about the life and career path of Pahresah Roomiany, MD, assistant professor of medicine and a hospitalist physician at Durham Regional Hospital. To get to know her better we asked several questions.
What brought you to Duke?
I trained at UNC and then came to Duke for a career in academic medicine. I liked that Duke integrates patient care with the outstanding research done here.
What are your interests in the field?
I really enjoy piecing together clues to come to a diagnosis. I also love teaching. Partnering with learners--residents, students and patients--and sometimes being the learner makes this job very satisfying and always new.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?
Traveling is my favorite thing to do. I also enjoy learning to cook very impractical and complex things. I recently spent a week trying to make macaroons. Other recent experiments include homemade pasta and baked Alaska. I also had a baby last year so being a new parent has also become a hobby!
Any trips you've taken recently that you would like to share?
My most recent trip abroad was to Iceland which was beautiful. Last year my husband and I hiked in Acadia National Park and visited New Orleans.
Any recent books you've read that you would like to share? 
I recently enjoyed The Butchering Art by Lindsey Fitzharris which follows Joseph Lister's quest to prove germ theory. Two of my favorite books are Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Haruki Murakami and the short story "Never Send To Know For Whom the Lettuce Wilts" by Harlan Ellison.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I planned events like concerts and the Homecoming parade at Idaho State University throughout my time as an undergraduate. I also had a radio show featuring blues and jazz on their NPR affiliate station. I am half Iranian and can understand Farsi but cannot speak it.
What is your favorite food?
Being an Idahoan--definitely potatoes--preferably mashed or in a samosa.
What is your favorite restaurant?
I miss restaurants! Pre-Covid it was M Sushi.
Dr. Roomiany is a co-author of the recent publication “Impact of On-Site Hospital Medicine Curriculum on Preceptor Perception of Rotation" with Drs. Sharma, Brooks, Verma, and Criscione-Schreiber in The Journal of Physician Assistant Education. PMID 32840342