Robert Winchester, MD and Joan Bathon, MD are Masters of the American College of Rheumatology

The Columbia University Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology proudly celebrates Robert Winchester, MD, and Joan Bathon, MD, for their designation as Masters of the American College of Rheumatology (MACR), recognizing their distinguished contributions to rheumatology, scientific discovery, and academic medicine. Dr. Winchester received this honor in 2004, followed by Dr. Bathon in 2018.

The Master designation recognizes physicians who have made outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology. The achievements of Dr. Winchester and Dr. Bathon reflect decades of scientific inquiry, clinical innovation, mentorship, and leadership that have helped advance the understanding and treatment of rheumatic and autoimmune diseases.

Robert Winchester, MD: Advancing the Understanding of Autoimmunity

Dr. Winchester, Professor of Medicine, Pathology and Cell Biology, and Pediatrics at Columbia University, has made seminal contributions to understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying human autoimmunity.

A defining achievement of his research was helping establish the relationship between variations in major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules and susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). His work with colleagues led to the shared epitope hypothesis, which provided a molecular framework for understanding how specific genetic variations contribute to the risk of developing RA. This discovery helped lay the foundation for subsequent research into the interactions between genetic susceptibility, immune recognition, and the development of autoimmune disease. In recognition of this groundbreaking work, Dr. Winchester shared the 2013 Crafoord Prize in Polyarthritis with Peter K. Gregersen, MD, and Lars Klareskog, MD, PhD.

Dr. Winchester's broader research has explored the role of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules, autoantibodies, immune complexes, and T-cell receptor biology in autoimmune disease. His continued commitment to investigating the fundamental mechanisms of immune dysfunction has helped shape the scientific understanding of rheumatic diseases.

His contributions also extend to mentorship and academic leadership. Dr. Winchester received the American College of Rheumatology's Excellence in Investigative Mentoring Award in 2008, recognizing his impact on the development of future generations of physician-scientists. He subsequently served as Chief of Rheumatology at Columbia, further contributing to the Division's tradition of scientific excellence and academic advancement.

Joan Bathon, MD: Transforming Research and Leadership in Rheumatology

Dr. Bathon, Professor of Medicine and Chief Emerita of the Division of Rheumatology at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, has distinguished herself through her contributions to clinical research, patient care, and academic leadership.

Her research has focused on the pathogenesis and systemic consequences of chronic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, particularly its effects beyond the joints. Dr. Bathon and her collaborators have investigated the relationship between RA and cardiovascular disease, including accelerated atherosclerosis, vascular inflammation, and myocardial dysfunction. By combining longitudinal patient cohorts with advanced imaging, biomarker analyses, and clinical outcome assessments, her work has helped expand understanding of the cardiovascular complications associated with chronic rheumatoid inflammation. Her research has also supported collaborative investigations into the mechanisms underlying these complications and opportunities for improving long-term patient outcomes.

In addition to her research contributions, Dr. Bathon has played a significant role in shaping the rheumatology community through national leadership and service. She served as Editor-in-Chief of Arthritis & Rheumatology from 2010 to 2015, helping guide the dissemination of important advances in the field. Her other leadership roles have included service on the American College of Rheumatology Board of Directors and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Arthritis Advisory Committee. She has also contributed to the evaluation and advancement of clinical research through service on National Institutes of Health review committees and clinical trial oversight boards. 

As a physician-scientist and academic leader, Dr. Bathon has helped strengthen the integration of clinical care, translational investigation, and education. Her work exemplifies the importance of understanding the broader health consequences of rheumatic disease while advancing evidence-based approaches to patient care.

A Lasting Legacy at Columbia

The recognition of Dr. Winchester and Dr. Bathon as Masters of the American College of Rheumatology reflects their individual achievements and the enduring impact of their work on the field. Their careers exemplify the essential role of scientific discovery, clinical investigation, mentorship, and academic leadership in advancing rheumatology.

The Columbia University Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology congratulates Dr. Winchester and Dr. Bathon on these distinguished honors and celebrates their lasting contributions to the Division, the broader rheumatology community, and the patients whose lives are improved by advances in research and clinical care.