Joanne Makar, M.D., PGY1, joined the UAB Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology in June 2024. A native of Palm Harbor, Florida, Makar completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Florida and medical school at Florida State University.

Get to know Dr. Makar better with three quick questions!

Why did you pursue a career in psychiatry?

I pursued a career in psychiatry because it gives me the opportunity to care for people battling mental illness, which is the population I desire to serve the most. Psychiatry has always been fascinating to me, and the more I learn about it the more I love it.

What is one thing about your job that people may be surprised to know about?

Something people may not know about psychiatry is that despite the long road to becoming a psychiatrist, the work is conducive to work-life balance.

If you could do any other job, what would it be?

If I could have chosen another field of work, I would study theology. I’ve always found religion and spirituality fascinating and would love the chance to study it formally.