GET TO KNOW YOUR LEADERSHIP
Q&A With Sean Callahan, MD, FCCP
Occupational and Environmental Health Section Vice-Chair
CHEST member since 2016
July 15, 2026
Where do you work?
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.
What are your research interests?
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) and e-cigarettes.
What led you to join your Network?
I wanted to participate in a national organization that focuses on improving care for patients with ILD. Much of what we do in ILD is founded on vibes and theory, despite a rapidly growing evidence base. CHEST does extraordinary work disseminating information in practical ways, which I value tremendously and love being a part of.
What achievements are you most proud of contributing to within your Network?
I’ve been lucky: CHEST has afforded me the opportunity to collaborate on diverse topics with an international group of leaders in pulmonary medicine. This has included co-presentations at the annual meeting, webinars on post-COVID-19 lung disease, and infographics pertaining to air quality. My proudest work is an annual meeting presentation on supplemental oxygen in patients with ILD, which included instruction from respiratory therapists and hands-on demonstrations of various devices.
How has being in a Network benefited your career and your experience as a CHEST member?
I have met so many tremendous people around the world doing interesting work. It has directly led to collaborative research projects and improved my own knowledge base on topics I had little exposure to prior to joining the Network.
What are your hobbies?
Keeping my two children alive, CrossFit, running, and video games.
What is something you cannot live without (after family and friends)?
Crossword puzzles and podcasts on politics, economics, and video games.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with your Network peers?
CHEST Networks are a fun way to get involved and find new opportunities. I highly recommend joining them!
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