Chibuzo Ilonze, M.D., MPH, assistant professor in the Division of Pediatric Hematology Oncology, was selected to participate in the 2023 class of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) Clinical Research Training Institute (CRTI).

A highly competitive award, the institute is a year-long education and mentoring program for hematology fellows and junior faculty at academic medical centers. CRTI offers a broad education on clinical research methods, research collaborations, statistical analysis, and managing the demands of family and career. The goal of the program is to produce leaders armed with ideas for clinical hematology research and the tools and resources to make their ideas a reality.

Dr. Ilonze’s research is entitled: “Tricuspid Regurgitation Velocity (TRV): Variability and Associations with End-Organ Damage in Children with Sickle Cell Anemia.” Emerging evidence suggests elevated TRV, a surrogate marker of pulmonary hypertension, may occur earlier in children, especially those with sickle cell anemia. Dr Ilonze’s research aims to elucidate benefits in obtaining earlier baseline screening echocardiograms, and explore associations with renal and cerebrovascular disorders. The results of this research may inform future screening guidelines for cardiopulmonary disease in children with sickle cell disease.

Congratulations Dr. Ilonze!