Faculty Focus: Matthew Bollier, MD

What is your hometown? 

Wheaton, IL

How/when did you become interested in science and/or medicine?

Musculoskeletal anatomy interested me from a young age- I wanted to know how and why the body worked the way it did. I had several injuries playing high school sports and was very intrigued with the physicians who took care of me. 

When did you join the University of Iowa faculty?

2010

How or why did you choose to join the faculty at the University of Iowa?

I was fortunate to join the orthopedic surgery department and sports medicine team at the University of Iowa 9 years ago. This was the result of a long-held interest in becoming part of a world class department, teaching the next generation of surgeons, and the chance to work with Division 1 athletes as a team physician. 

Is there a teacher or mentor who helped shape your career?

Dr. Jeff King, orthopedic surgery faculty in my residency, was instrumental in teaching me how to talk with patients and transmit knowledge to patients in a straight forward and simple way. He excelled in all three areas of academic medicine: clinical and operative skills, education and teaching, and scholarship/ research. He was able to have a successful academic and clinical career while also being a loving husband and caring father. 

How do you see your faculty role impacting medicine and/or science?

One of the primary reasons I decided to join the faculty at the University of Iowa was the opportunity to participate in research and scholarship activities that enhance knowledge and outcomes in orthopedic sports medicine. Our sports medicine team has been involved in multi-center studies, set up prospective clinical registries here at Iowa, and have involved hundreds of medical students, residents, and fellows.

What is the biggest change you've experienced in your field since you were a student?

The biggest change in our field is the use of biologics to enhance healing and promote regeneration in muscles, tendons, and bone.

What one piece of advice would you give to today's students?

Figure out which field and specialty you are passionate about and don’t let other issues distract you from pursuing this.

In what ways are you engaged in professional activities outside the University (i.e. population based research, mentoring high school students, sharing your leadership/ expertise with organizations or causes, speaking engagement off campus, etc.)?

I have given talks to youth and high school coaches on common injuries, been involved with community leaders on joint sports medicine ventures, and have volunteered with several national organizations.

What are some of your outside (personal) interests?

I try to coach one of my four kids in youth sports each year. I am actively involved in our local church and love to hang out with my family at the lake.

Learn more about Matthew Bollier, MD.