Faculty Focus: Q&A with urologic oncologist Kathryn Marchetti, MD
Assistant professor Kathryn Marchetti, MD, joined the Department of Urology faculty in July 2025 after completing a Society of Urologic Oncology fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Dr. Marchetti completed residency in urology at the University of Michigan Medical School, where she also earned an MD.
What’s special to you about joining the Iowa Urology team?
I am excited to join a team that values collaboration, innovation, as well as compassionate and patient-centered care. Working with an amazing group of providers at the University of Iowa is special in that it will assist me in taking great care of patients and their families.
“I am lucky to be able to help people navigate complex decisions and align them with their goals. Helping people understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and survivorship—making a difficult process easier—is the best part of my job.”
— Dr. Kathryn Marchetti
What are you looking forward to as a member of the Iowa Urology team?
The opportunity to work alongside talented colleagues who are deeply committed to providing high-quality care, advancing the field of urology, and working together is incredibly motivating. I will be at my best as a surgeon, scientist, and a teacher working with the outstanding team here.
What led you to the field of urology?
Urologists help people through the entire continuum of their urologic care—screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. I appreciate the opportunity to work with patients and their families longitudinally during the many stages of their urologic care, and to have access to the essential tools to address the spectrum of their needs.
What do you love about being a urologist?
Caring for patients and their families is a privilege. I am lucky to be able to help people navigate complex decisions and align them with their goals. Helping people understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and survivorship—making a difficult process easier—is the best part of my job.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?
Being born and raised in California and Michigan, I will enjoy exploring what Iowa City and the state of Iowa have to offer with my family.
What’s the best advice you ever received from a mentor?
One of the best pieces of advice I received is, “Do what is right, not easy.” It reminds me that the right thing to do is often also the harder option, but it’s worth the extra work.
Do you have a favorite inspirational quote or motto?
I like to remember that “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” This motivates me through the challenges of today, as they spark the wisdom of tomorrow.
Your Gift Makes A Difference
Join us in our mission to improve the lives of patients with urologic conditions across Iowa and around the world.