Francisco Alvarado, PharmD, PhD

Assistant Professor
Cardiovascular Medicine

What is your primary professional focus as it relates to our mission areas (clinical, research and/or medical education)?
My main focus is on research. I study the molecular, cellular and whole-heart mechanisms that control healthy and diseased hearts, with a focus on cardiac arrhythmia and cardiomyopathy. Our aim is to understand disease and identify druggable targets that may improve the life of patients.

What drew you to UW–Madison and the Department of Medicine? 
The cutting-edge research and collaborative environment at the Cardiovascular Research Center and the Cellular and Molecular Arrhythmia Research Program drew me to UW–Madison and the DOM.

What are you most excited about during your first year with the department in this role? 
I am very excited about setting up my lab and recruiting talented scientists and trainees. I am very enthusiastic about teaching and look forward to having students join the lab.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I enjoy cooking, photography, traveling and the outdoors.

Favorite piece of advice from a mentor or inspiring figure in your life?
Follow your passions, persist and be patient.