Dr. Schaefer is a Professor of Pediatrics, Genetics and Internal Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He was the Founding Director of the Division of Medical Genetics. He was the Chief of the Section of Genetics and Metabolism in the Department of Pediatrics at UAMS from 2008 – 2017. He was the inaugural holder of the Committee for the Future Endowed Chair in Medical Genetics. He has been the Medical Director of the Genetic Counseling Training program at UAMS for over 18 years.
He has achieved board certification in Pediatrics, Human Genetics, and Pediatric Endocrinology. He is a founding fellow of the American College of Medical Genetics, and a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He is a member of the American Pediatric Society.
He has authored over 250 scientific articles, book chapters, and invited reviews. He is on the editorial board of the Journal of Child Neurology, and sits on the National Advisory Board for the Sotos Syndrome Support Association.
His clinical and research interests focus on the genetics of neurodevelopmental, neurosensory and neurobehavioral disorders; craniofacial genetics, medical transition for Children with Special Health Care needs; Tele-genetics services; and Newborn Screening follow up and infrastructure.