Rheumatology Research Foundation

Kaleb Michaud, PhD, a recipient of the Foundation’s Innovative Research Award, was featured in this Healio Rheumatology article to share his expertise on the impact of cannabis research on the field of rheumatology. https://www.healio.com/news/rheumatology/20240307/new-legislation-may-tame-wild-west-of-cannabis-research-in-rheumatology

Investigators who have applied to NIH R01, VA Research Career Scientist (RCS) or Merit Awards and received a priority score but were not funded and are at risk of running out of research support are encouraged to apply for funding through our Career Development Bridge Funding Award: R Bridge.

Learn more and apply online by October 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/career-development-research-vawards

NewsWise highlighted Foundation-funded Scientific Development Awardee Ajay Tambralli, MD, and his research on the immunometabolism of neutrophils in lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Neutrophils, crucial white blood cells, capture germs using sticky, spider web-like structures called neutrophil extracellular traps or NETs. Excessive NET formation is associated with APS, leading to issues like blood clots.

Dr. Tambralli and his team at the University of Michigan are investigating how modifying neutrophil metabolism—specifically glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway—can reduce NET production and enhance APS treatment. Their research suggests that targeting these metabolic pathways could lead to more effective and safer treatments compared to current blood thinners.

https://d.newswise.com/articles/could-targeting-metabolism-treat-blood-clots-in-antiphospholipid-syndrome

The Foundation’s Innovative Research Award provides essential support to independent academic investigators for innovative studies focused on generating new insights into the cause, progression, treatment, and outcomes of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases.

The required letters of intent are due by October 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/innovative-research-award/

The Career Development Bridge Funding Award: K Bridge supports junior investigators to continue conducting innovative research while reapplying for an NIH or VA career development award. Applications are due October 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/career-development-research-awards

A heartfelt thank you to Association of Women in Rheumatology Women for allowing The Foundation to be part of your 2024 Annual Conference and celebrating AWIR’s 10th anniversary! Your mission to advance the science and practice of rheumatology, foster the advancement of education of Women in Rheumatology, and advocating for the access to the highest quality of healthcare align with our values.

The Foundation proudly supports Women in Rheumatology and is committed to advancing their contributions. Over the past five years, we have invested nearly $27 million in research led by female investigators.

In 2024, we’re thrilled to see women leading each board of directors within the college, and our own leadership boasts 50% or more female representation. Together, we are forging a future where women in rheumatology continue to shine and drive progress.

A heartfelt thank you to for allowing The Foundation to be part of your 2024 Annual Conference and celebrating AWIR’s 10th anniversary! Your mission to advance the science and practice of rheumatology, foster the advancement of education of Women in Rheumatology, and advocating for the access to the highest quality of healthcare align with our values.

The Foundation proudly supports Women in Rheumatology and is committed to advancing their contributions. Over the past five years, we have invested nearly $27 million in research led by female investigators.

In 2024, we’re thrilled to see women leading each board of directors within the college, and our own leadership boasts 50% or more female representation. Together, we are forging a future where women in rheumatology continue to shine and drive progress.

The deadline to apply for the Foundation's ACR Convergence Awards is just 2 days away! These awards recognize scholarship among aspiring rheumatology professionals and provide an opportunity to experience the field firsthand at ACR Convergence 2024.

Applications due August 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/acr-convergence-awards

Our Career Development Bridge Funding Award: K Supplement encourages junior investigators to expand promising research by providing additional support to cover costs and help investigators become independent.

Only 1 week left to apply! Applications are due August 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET → https://www.rheumresearch.org/career-development-research-awards

Healio Rheumatology featured Foundation-funded investigators Melissa Mannion, MD and R. Swamy Venuturupalli, MD, FACR as well as the Foundation’s Mentored Nurse Practitioner/Physician Assistant Award for Workforce Expansion in this article on the role of APPs in rheumatology.

🔗 https://www.healio.com/news/rheumatology/20240619/the-writing-is-on-the-wall-the-ever-expanding-evolving-role-of-apps-in-rheumatology

“I hope my contributions and mentorship alleviate the pressures and encourage talented individuals to pursue academic and research careers,” expressed Dr. Michael H. Weisman.

Dr. Weisman has dedicated his life unselfishingly to ensuring that his mentees do not face the same obstacles he faced in his own career.

Dr. Weisman’s significant philanthropic efforts to support junior faculty are exemplified by his support for the Rheumatology Research Foundation’s Investigator Award. The Investigator Award provides critical funding for researchers to conduct innovative research, bridging the gap between post-doctoral fellowship training where support is given freely to the next stages where securing significant funding to establish independent research careers is a major challenge. By supporting the Investigator Award, he is helping to cultivate a new generation of researchers who will drive innovation and improve patient care.

Click the link 🔗 in our bio to read the full article to learn more about Dr. Weisman’s inspiring journey and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers.

The Foundation's ACR Convergence Awards provide an opportunity for students, residents and fellows to experience the field of rheumatology firsthand at the American College of Rheumatology's 2024 Convergence meeting in Washington D.C. this November. Applications are due on August 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/acr-convergence-awards

From Maine to Colorado, Stasha Parker, author of the Tenacious ME blog, shares her journey as a Rheum Champion and Impact Advisory Council member at this year's Investigators Meeting. Stasha details the newly forged patient friendships, interactions with investigators and being able to witness groundbreaking research dedicated to improving the lives of patients.

Read her full story in the latest issue of the Foundation Voice: https://magazine.rheumresearch.org/foundation-voice-summer-2024.html?p=11

The Summer 2024 issue of the Foundation Voice is here! This latest issue features our 2024 Award Recipients, an insightful article from Tenacious ME about our Rheum Champions' first experience at the annual Investigators Meeting, a tribute to Michael H. Weisman, MD’s unwavering commitment to cultivating the next generation of rheumatologists and much more. https://magazine.rheumresearch.org/foundation-voice-summer-2024/full-view.html

We are thrilled to announce our 2024 Award Recipients! Funding for this class of recipients will accelerate ground-breaking scientific discoveries in rheumatic disease research and address the workforce shortage to ensure patients across the nation have access to care to live longer, healthier lives. https://magazine.rheumresearch.org/2024-award-recipients/full-view.html

Be the first to receive the latest issues of the Foundation Voice, updates with content from the RheumLab, and stay up-to-date on Foundation news and events by subscribing to our email list. https://www.rheumresearch.org/Email-SignUp/

Celebrating freedom, fireworks, and the joy of being together with loved ones. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Independence Day filled with laughter, BBQs, and unforgettable memories.

How are you celebrating today? Share your 4th of July moments in the comments below!

Convergence 2024 attendance is indispensable. Every opportunity to learn is invaluable. In partnership with the American College of Rheumatology we’re launching Fund a FiT —to remove financial barriers for Fellows, allowing these promising professionals to harness the full benefits of these educational experiences.

Join us in our mission to provide equal access to essential learning experiences at Convergence 2024 and beyond. Your support matters!

📌 Link in bio.

Research findings from Dr. Vanessa Kronzer’s Foundation-funded project were featured in Med Page Today. Her research suggests that sinusitis may be a precursor to rheumatic disease. By focusing future studies on replicating this association, investigators may be able to determine if preventing and treating sinusitis can help prevent and treat rheumatic diseases.

Sinusitis Tied to Later Autoimmune Disease Olmsted County analysis points to substantial risk

Today we celebrate , marking the end of slavery in the U.S.

This day stands for freedom, liberation, and equality. Let’s honor this crucial part of American history and reflect on the ongoing journey towards true equality.

Happy Father’s Day!

Let's pay it forward! Your continued support has fueled groundbreaking research and trained more rheumatology professionals to provide patient care. Now, let's extend a helping hand to the next generation of rheumatologists. By contributing to Fund a FiT to attend Convergence 2024, you're investing in the future of our field and fostering innovation and excellence. Together, we can make a lasting impact. Join us today!

Junior investigators interested in conducting innovative research are encouraged to check out our Investigator Award. This funding opportunity encourages junior investigators in the period between completing post-doctoral fellowship training; while being competitive for more significant funding and establishing themselves as independent investigators.

Required Letters of intent are due July 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET and applications are due by August 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/career-development-research-awards

Subscribe to The Foundation Voice. A digital magazine released every Spring, Summer, and Fall. Read stories from our community of rheumatology researchers, patients, and donors as well the Foundation’s major annual publications (Annual Report, Award Recipients, and Donor Acknowledgments)

📌Stay Connected at rheumresearch.org/email-signup

The Foundation is accepting applications for the Scientist Development Award. Individuals in the early stages of their career or who do not have significant prior research experience are welcome to apply for funding to conduct innovative research.

Required letters of intent are due July 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET and applications are due by August 1, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/career-development-research-awards

Ready to discover all the Rheumatology Lab has to offer? Unlock the right resources for you at the link below.

Exploring the Rheumatology Lab - The Rheumatology Lab The Rheumatology Research Foundation recently launched the Rheumatology Lab, a patient-centered platform featuring a variety of resources.

Join us in making a meaningful impact! With your generosity, we’re building a stronger rheumatology workforce. Now, let’s take another vital step together. In partnership with the American College of Rheumatology , help us Fund a FiT and empower the next generation of rheumatology leaders. Your support will directly fund Convergence 2024 scientific session registration fees.

There are less than 2 weeks left to apply for some of our Education & Training Awards! If you are a rheumatology professional looking to fund the salary of a fellow in your ACGME-accredited program or interested in developing a career in education and training, make sure you apply by June 3, 2024 by 5 PM ET. https://www.rheumresearch.org/education-and-training-awards