My research interests are focused on clinical and translational investigations of transfusion safety and include studies of infectious and non-infectious complications of transfusion, including RBC and HLA alloimmunization, graft versus host disease, and evidence based transfusion practices. Recent studies include the molecular characterization of genes associated with alloimmunization and genetic modifiers of hemoglobin F expression.
I have served NHLBI, FDA, and AABB in a number of roles including Special Emphasis Panels and review groups as the transfusion consultant for STOP I, II, SWiTCH and TWiTCH. I served on NHLBI Council from 2011-2014. As Vice Chair of Academic Affairs, I have established, directed, or co-directed training programs for junior and women faculty including K30, Pediatric Clinical Research, and Sickle Cell Scholar Programs and a T32. I am the program director of our KL2 and oversee other K awardees' career development awards. I am responsible for academic and research education programming, including the development of resident, fellow, junior, and master mentorship programs, grants training seminars, and career development initiatives. I review for the NHLBI’s Loan Repayment Program and serve on several K12 External Advisory Committees. I have mentored over 30 fellows and junior faculty, most of whom are now in academic positions in pediatric hematology.