Humans of LMP: James Burns

Each month we speak to a member of the Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology community and find out more about them as part of an initiative from our Wellness, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Committee (WIDE).

This month, as part of our celebrations for Resident Appreciation Week and Thank a Resident Day, we feature Dr. James Burns, Medical Microbiology resident.

What are you studying at LMP and why are you interested in studying it?

I’ll soon be approaching the end of my 4th year in Medical Microbiology. I always gravitated more towards medicine that wasn’t restricted to one system and found an interest in infectious diseases and microbiology even before my general internal medicine training back in the UK. I enjoy the balance between having a depth of knowledge about an extensive breadth of pathogens, tests, and antimicrobials, against the importance of connecting with patients, identify epidemiological risk factors, and communicating with colleagues when consulting on cases. Medical Microbiology allows me to bridge the technical precision that happens in the lab with patient-focused diagnosis and management in the clinical space. It’s a great specialty for those who like navigating uncertainty; interacting with colleagues, actively supporting other teams; and being involved in complex, interesting cases.

Tell us about any research you're currently working on

I am slightly eclectic when it comes to research, though generally I like to pursue research questions that I feel could be clinically beneficial.

I’m still involved in clinical research from my previous position at University College London, which focuses on observational and randomised clinical trials in people living with HIV. I collaborate with colleagues in paediatric infectious diseases, particularly around congenital infections.

I have recently published a review in the Canadian Medical Association Journal on zoonotic infectious diseases in the Canadian Arctic - the hope is that it will be of use to general clinicians given these are neglected diseases that disproportionately impact the Indigenous Peoples living in the Arctic.

I’m also close to completing what should be one of largest datasets of microbial isolates from bone and joint samples, from which I will assess for trends in what organisms are identified and any changes in the amount of antimicrobial resistance. 

What is the most interesting thing you’ve done, seen or got involved with while at LMP?

I’m a clinician at heart so I’ve always enjoyed being consulted on interesting/challenging cases and working with the other clinical teams, whether that’s because of unusual organisms, thinking of differentials, helping with investigations, or discussing complex management due to limited treatment options. 

What was the best career advice you ever received?

Don’t be afraid to deviate from the typical path if you see an opportunity.

What has been an important learning experience in your life?  

I think living in various cities and countries always expands your perspective, exposes you to alternative ways of approaching things, and allows you to appreciate the best parts of different systems and cultures. I think people should feel empowered to explore as the worst thing that can happen is you go back home again! Though the inevitable paperwork and moving process can test your resolve!

Who is an influential person in your life and why? 

My good friend and mentor from back in the UK, Professor Sarah Pett. I consider myself very lucky and grateful that our paths crossed. She has always gone above and beyond in supporting me, helping me to develop my career, and giving pep talks when the imposter syndrome starts to set in and it feels like all the spinning plates are about to fall.

What would surprise people to know about you? 

I like to collect decorative masks from the places that I travel. I probably have around 25-30 from six continents so far. Wall space is becoming an issue…

What activities do you enjoy doing outside of work? 

I’ll be honest in saying that I often find myself having to do a lot of work outside of work… to the surprise of nobody who knows me. When I don’t, I’ve always enjoyed playing video games, hosting board game nights, taking weekend trips, cooking/eating out, and I’ve been learning to ski for the past few years - I’m not short on hobbies when I get the spare time!

What is your favourite album, film and novel? 

Album: My music tastes are also eclectic. I don’t have a particular album, so I’ll cheat and say some artists I like are The Midnight, Chvrches, and Aurora. 

Film: Donnie Darko, closely followed by V for Vendetta and A Single Man. Donnie Darko had this unique 80s melancholy that for some reason appealed to teenage me. V for Vendetta because I have a morbid interest in dystopian timelines, so this captures a darker version of British culture very well. A Single Man has a very poignant story with beautiful cinematography and music.

Novel: The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan (though it did take a year to read it all…). Fantasy is generally my go-to to escape reality for a little while. 

Who would be your dream dinner guests? 

I have some fond memories from dinner parties with my close friends, so I would still choose them over anybody else. 

Where or what is your favourite place?

I think I’ll always have a soft spot for London (UK). Its such a fantastic city, even if its just having a coffee and a stroll around Hyde Park. Doing my master’s there was a pivotal point in how my life has turned out; I found my partner of 10 years, I have my secret spots that I like to take friends who visit, and I was lucky to make what will be lifelong friendships with people from different parts of the world whilst living there.

If you were stuck on a deserted island but had all your basic needs taken care of (i.e. food and water), what two items would you bring with you and why?

I’d need sunscreen if that doesn’t count as a basic need as I sunburn in the shade, otherwise it would likely be a step-by-step guide on how to escape a deserted island. Whilst I could probably cope with the solitude, I’m more of a glamper than a deserted-island-with-only-the-basics kind of guy.