2026 ESPR Council Election
Candidate Statements
The Eastern Society for Pediatric Research (ESPR) invites members to participate in the 2026 Council election. The 2026 ballot below includes several important leadership positions that help guide the Society’s direction and support its mission.
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President-Elect - 2 candidates
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Councilor - 6 candidates
Please review each candidate’s statement by clicking on their name before casting your vote.
Note: Only current ESPR members are eligible to vote in this election.
President-Elect
Catherine Buck, MD
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Yale School of Medicine
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
My research centers on understanding how early metabolic and nutritional exposures shape growth, adiposity, and long-term health in preterm infants. Most recently, my work has focused specifically on moderate to late preterm infants, an understudied group sometimes referred to as ‘the forgotten preemie.’ Through my work co-leading the Yale Neonatal NOuRISH (Nutrition Outcomes Research In Sustaining mother and infant Health) Team, my research studies integrate detailed body composition assessments and biospecimen-based approaches to identify early markers of metabolic risk. My recent investigations have focused on how metabolic conditions during pregnancy such as diabetes and obesity influence infant growth trajectories and fat development from birth through childhood. Across projects, I enjoy collaborating and partnering with investigators across disciplines to develop more precise ways to measure early adiposity and to understand the mechanisms that drive later cardiometabolic vulnerability. Ultimately, my goal is to generate evidence that can inform tailored nutritional interventions which balance the need to optimize neurodevelopment with potential risk of early alterations in metabolism and too much catch-up growth.
Statement of Interest
I am pleased to submit my nomination for the President-Elect position for the Eastern Society for Pediatric Research. ESPR has been a wonderful influence in shaping my career thus far. I have benefited from early opportunities to present my work as a trainee, to network and build collaborations, and to receive mentorship that has guided my academic path. As an ESPR councilor and co-leader of the annual meeting planning committee over the last several years, I have gained insight into the Society’s mission and operations, and I have seen first-hand the great value of a regional community that fosters rigorous academic work, interdisciplinary exchange, and meaningful connections. My other leadership roles in research and trainee development/mentorship have prepared me to take on this role within ESPR to help lead the society, along with the rest of the leadership team, as it continues to support current and future academic pediatricians at every career stage.
I believe that mentorship, collaboration, and community-building are central to ESPR’s mission. My own mentoring/mentee experiences have shown me how much trainees benefit from strong guidance, clear opportunities, and access to welcoming communities. Drawing on these experiences, I hope to help ESPR continue to prioritize practical, sustainable ways to deepen trainee and rising investigator engagement within the society. In my work on the annual meeting planning committee over the last three years, I have helped strengthen the programming to include trainee focused networking sessions, and new this coming year, trainee focused education sessions on research methodology and opportunities for rising investigators in the region to present their work and gain a regional reputation. Looking ahead, my goal as President-Elect would be to help ESPR continue to grow as a scientifically rigorous and genuinely collaborative regional society. This includes continuing to build connections across scientific areas, encouraging shared learning among investigators at all stages, and partnering with and learning from other societies to expand engagement and perceived value from participation in the society. This also includes maintaining a friendly and encouraging forum for trainees to present their work and be inspired to pursue a career in pediatric research through their exposure to other investigators in the region. I am committed to supporting a society and annual meeting that remains rigorous, welcoming, and reflective of the evolving interests of our members. ESPR has played a meaningful role in my own development, and I would be honored to contribute steady, collaborative leadership that supports the society mission and helps inspire the next generation of pediatric investigators.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
My goal in supporting diversity and collaborative excellence within ESPR is to ensure that trainees at every level have meaningful opportunities to connect, learn, and participate in the society’s community. Central to this is ensuring that trainees are exposed to a broad and collaborative group of mentors and to a wide range of research questions and investigations which reflect the breadth of pediatric sciences in our large region. In my work at Yale, I have helped build research and educational environments where students, fellows, and team members feel welcomed, supported, and able to contribute through representative and ethical research recruitment practices and engagement with our NICU family advisory council. As an ESPR leader, I would continue to expand opportunities for mentorship, networking, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. This includes enhancing pathways for all levels of trainees to present and refine their work and supporting programming that encourages thoughtful discussion, skill development, and exposure to different perspectives. Soliciting feedback from trainees and rising investigators is central to achieving these goals. My aim is for ESPR to remain a regionally strong, collegial community where emerging investigators can build connections, develop their research identities, and be inspired to pursue careers in academic pediatrics.
Nicole Spillane, MD
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Hackensack School of Medicine
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
As a neonatal physician–scientist, I am dedicated to optimizing delivery-room resuscitation and expanding the use of point-of-care ultrasound to improve neonatal outcomes. I currently lead and participate in multiple resuscitation research initiatives, ranging from a federally funded multi-center trial to investigator-initiated institutional studies.
At the national level, I led the effort to establish Hackensack University Medical Center as a member of the innovative DRIVE (Delivery Room Intervention and Evaluation) Network— strengthening our capacity to collaborate with peer institutions to better understand resuscitation practices and outcomes. I serve as the site Principal Investigator for the PCORI-funded Supraglottic Airway for Resuscitation Trial (SUGAR), which compares strategies to promote early supraglottic airway rescue during neonatal resuscitation, with a particular emphasis on implementation science and real-world feasibility.
Locally, my research portfolio includes evaluating a novel code cart with visual aids to streamline advanced resuscitation; examining watchful waiting versus CPAP in the management of mild respiratory distress in term newborns; and assessing the predictive value of lung-ultrasound scoring to anticipate respiratory decompensation in late preterm infants. Additionally, I serve as a co-investigator on the NIH-funded Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) study and have contributed to multiple ECHO publications.
Statement of Interest
My first exposure to the Eastern Society for Pediatric Research (ESPR) occurred early in my training, when my mentors encouraged me to submit my work to the annual conference. As a novice researcher, I felt apprehensive about presenting my findings before an audience of accomplished scientists. Their reassurance—that ESPR was committed to supporting and mentoring emerging investigators—proved entirely true. The conference offered an ideal environment in which to share my research, receive constructive feedback, and connect with colleagues who shared my enthusiasm for discovery. That early experience left me feeling encouraged, supported, and confident about pursuing a research-focused career.
As I have grown from trainee to faculty member, I have witnessed firsthand how ESPR continues to champion early-career investigators and to cultivate a positive, collaborative atmosphere. Watching our NICU fellows from Hackensack University Medical Center present their work with pride at ESPR meetings has reinforced my appreciation for the Society’s commitment to mentorship, scientific rigor, and professional growth.
Having served as both a member and Chair of the Membership Committee for many years, I have gained insight into the organization’s values, operations, and evolving priorities. I am eager to contribute to the Society in a broader leadership role. If granted the privilege to serve, I hope to build upon the collective strengths of the Executive Council, expand opportunities for trainees and faculty at all career stages, and help advance ESPR’s mission to foster scientific excellence, mentorship, and collaboration throughout our region.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is essential to the mission of ESPR and to the advancement of pediatric research. As president, I would strive to ensure that ESPR reflects the diversity of the pediatric workforce and the populations we serve, and that every member—regardless of background, identity, or institutional resources—feels welcomed, represented, and empowered to contribute.
To strengthen DEI within ESPR, I would focus on the following priorities:
Actively recruit members, trainees, and speakers from underrepresented groups in medicine (URiM) and from institutions with fewer research resources.
Develop mentorship pathways that intentionally pair URiM trainees with experienced investigators.
Recruit plenary and keynote speakers with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Through these initiatives, my goal is to help ESPR continue to grow as an inclusive scientific home where every researcher—regardless of identity, lived experience, or institutional affiliation—can thrive and contribute to advancing child health.
Councilor
Indrani Bhattacharjee, MD
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Tufts University School of Medicine
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
My research centers on developing non-invasive, physiology-informed imaging tools to improve early diagnosis, monitoring, and risk stratification in extremely preterm infants. A major focus of my work is the use of intestinal ultrasound as a biomarker of early gut development and injury, a field in which I lead multi-center collaborations across the United States and Australia aimed at harmonizing image acquisition techniques, validating quantitative ultrasound markers, and building predictive pathways for NEC and related disorders. This work reflects my long-term goal of shifting NEC diagnosis from reactive to proactive—using imaging to identify bowel vulnerability before clinical deterioration occurs.
In parallel, I study lung developmental physiology through imaging, including the creation of gestational-age–specific lung ultrasound scoring systems that capture maturation, aeration, and evolving respiratory phenotypes in preterm infants. My research portfolio also includes innovative work on radiation-sparing diagnostic strategies and implementation of integrated point-of-care ultrasound curricula for neonatal-perinatal medicine.
My scholarly track record includes a broad body of peer-reviewed work spanning neonatal imaging, immune regulation, metabolic development, and neurodevelopmental risk prediction. Highlights include studies linking brain MRI scoring to neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants with congenital heart disease, and randomized controlled trials evaluating immunologic effects of Vitamin D supplementation in preterm infants—projects that strengthened my grounding in rigorous clinical research, mechanistic reasoning, and translational interpretation.
Across all these programs, my overarching aim is to generate actionable, reproducible, and developmentally grounded tools that translate bedside physiology into earlier detection, more precise clinical decisions, and improved outcomes for vulnerable newborns. My collaborative approach—spanning institutions, disciplines, and international partners—reflects my commitment to advancing neonatal science while building sustainable research networks for the next generation of investigators.
Statement of Interest
I am honored to be considered for the SPR Council. My career as a neonatologist and Assistant Professor at Tufts University School of Medicine is rooted in advancing neonatal science, strengthening collaborative research networks, and expanding opportunities for early-career investigators. My research focuses on neonatal imaging innovation, including intestinal ultrasound for early gut injury, lung developmental physiology, gestational age–specific lung ultrasound scoring, and radiation-sparing diagnostic tools. I currently lead a multi-center collaboration across the United States (Mt. Sinai, UC Davis) and Australia (University of Sydney) examining early gut development through quantitative ultrasound—work aimed at defining new biomarkers, enabling earlier NEC risk detection, and standardizing imaging practices internationally.
In addition to my research, I have taken on major educational and institutional leadership roles. I lead POCUS curriculum development for the Tufts Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship and the Pediatric Hospital Medicine (PHM) programs, establishing structured, competency-based training that integrates simulation, standardized image acquisition, and longitudinal assessment. I also co-lead the regional New England Senior Fellow Simulation Boot Camp, involving 7–8 neonatal fellowship programs annually, and serve on the National Neonatal POCUS Curriculum Guidelines Committee, roles that emphasize mentorship, educational design, and equitable training access. Within Tufts, I serve on the Medical School Admissions Committee, the Fellowship Clinical Competency Committee, the Scholarly Oversight Committee, and the Pediatric Research Committee, contributing to trainee evaluation, recruitment, research development, and holistic academic support.
As a Council member, I hope to bring my experience in research innovation, curriculum development, committee leadership, and collaborative network-building to strengthen SPR programming, expand scientific visibility, and support a diverse, inclusive community of pediatric investigators.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion is foundational to my work as a clinician, educator, researcher, and institutional leader. As a neonatologist serving diverse patient populations across both tertiary and community hospitals, I recognize that advancing equity in pediatrics begins with intentional access—to mentorship, training, authorship, and leadership pathways. Through my service on the Tufts Medical School Admissions Committee, Fellowship Clinical Competency Committee, Scholarly Oversight Committee, and Pediatric Research Committee, I help shape equitable recruitment processes, holistic trainee evaluation, and research environments that support success for learners from all backgrounds.
My commitment to DEI is further reinforced by my active role in Women in Medicine & Science (WIMS) at Tufts, where I advocate for gender equity, sponsor early-career women faculty, and help address structural barriers that disproportionately affect women in academic medicine. I mentor medical students, residents, fellows, junior faculty, and undergraduates—including many from historically underrepresented groups—emphasizing transparent authorship practices, confidence-building, and targeted academic support.
As a leader in POCUS curriculum development for the Tufts Neonatal Fellowship and PHM programs, I work to democratize access to high-value imaging training, ensuring that advanced competencies are not limited by institutional resources or prior exposure. Nationally, my work on the Neonatal POCUS Curriculum Guidelines Committee and my U.S.–Australia multi-center collaborations reflect my commitment to ensuring that scientific advances are inclusive, globally representative, and designed to reduce disparities in neonatal outcomes.
If selected for the SPR Council, I will champion equitable trainee access to mentorship and research pathways, broaden involvement of community and underrepresented institutions in collaborative science, and promote programming that amplifies the voices and contributions of women and historically marginalized groups. My goal is for every investigator—regardless of gender, race, institution, or career stage—to feel welcomed, represented, and empowered within SPR.
Vignesh Gunasekaran, MD
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
West Virginia University School of Medicine
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
My research focuses on improving neonatal outcomes in rural and underserved populations through evidence-based strategies and collaborative care models. Current projects include reducing late preterm infant admissions to the NICU by implementing standardized guidelines and community-level interventions, and investigating the epidemiology, management, and long-term outcomes of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) in West Virginia. Additionally, I work closely with the West Virginia Perinatal Partnership and obstetric teams to reduce the number of very preterm infants delivered in non-tertiary hospitals, aiming to optimize maternal-fetal care and regionalize high-risk deliveries. I am also leading the Mother-Infant Dyad project using REDCap to evaluate integrated care approaches that strengthen bonding and improve health outcomes for vulnerable newborns and their families.
Statement of Interest
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Councilor position with the Eastern Society of Pediatric Research (ESPR). As an Assistant Professor at West Virginia University School of Medicine and as a board-certified neonatologist, I have developed a deep commitment to advancing pediatric research, education, and mentorship within our field. My service as a Junior Representative to the ESPR Council and active member of the Social Media Committee has provided me with valuable insight into the organization's mission, governance structure, and strategic priorities. This experience has reinforced my enthusiasm for the society's work in fostering excellence in pediatric research and my desire to expand my contributions through a more substantive leadership role. I am confident that my clinical expertise, research background, and passion for supporting the ESPR community position me well to serve effectively as a Councilor.
Over the past three years, I have cultivated a robust track record of academic achievement and community engagement that directly aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the Councilor position description. My research agenda encompasses critical areas, including neonatal abstinence syndrome, patent ductus arteriosus management in preterm infants, necrotizing enterocolitis, and peripartum mental health outcomes. With several peer-reviewed publications, numerous oral presentations at major conferences including ESPR, and active participation in peer review for leading journals such as Nature Reviews Neuroscience and BMJ Paediatrics Open, I have demonstrated a sustained commitment to advancing the field through rigorous scientific inquiry and scholarly collaboration. Additionally, my service as Conference Moderator and Poster Session Judge at the 2025 ESPR annual meeting reflects my dedication to supporting trainee engagement and scientific excellence. Through my work on the Social Media Committee, I have helped enhance ESPR's digital communication efforts and member engagement, gaining firsthand experience in promoting membership growth and advocacy for the organization's mission. My quality improvement initiatives, including guidelines development for late preterm infant care and hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus management, further demonstrate my ability to contribute meaningfully to organizational priorities and collective action.
I am particularly motivated to bring my perspective on diversity, trainee mentorship, and the integration of emerging topics in pediatric research to the ESPR Council. Throughout my career, I have prioritized mentoring the next generation of pediatricians and researchers, as evidenced by my comprehensive educational contributions at both the fellow and resident levels, and my role in teaching sessions on contemporary clinical topics. My commitment to inclusive excellence is reflected in my previous service on diversity initiatives and my focus on underrepresented health issues such as rural perinatal mental health and substance-exposed neonates in under-resourced communities. As a Councilor, I would be eager to support ESPR's Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion efforts while continuing to advocate for trainee involvement in the society's governance and programming. I am fully committed to the time requirements of this position, including active participation in all Council meetings and engagement with committees or task forces as appointed by the President. I would welcome the opportunity to serve ESPR as a Councilor and contribute to the society's continued mission of advancing pediatric research, fostering meaningful mentorship, and promoting collaborative excellence across our community.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
Having navigated the challenges of transitioning from an international medical graduate in India to training in top U.S. pediatric programs and now practicing as a neonatologist in rural West Virginia, I bring a unique perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). My experiences have underscored the importance of creating pathways for underrepresented and international trainees and of addressing healthcare disparities in underserved communities. Within the Eastern Society of Pediatric Research, I will promote DEI by advocating for mentorship programs that support diverse trainees, encouraging research that highlights health inequities in rural and marginalized populations, and fostering inclusive conference environments where voices from varied backgrounds are heard. Additionally, through my ongoing collaborations with the West Virginia Perinatal Partnership and projects like the Mother-Infant Dyad initiative, I aim to integrate community-based insights into ESPR activities, ensuring that DEI principles are reflected not only in membership but also in the research priorities that shape neonatal and pediatric care.
Alla Kushnir, MD
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Cooper Medical School of Rowan University
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
My research focuses on advancing neonatal care through collaborative, translational studies that improve outcomes for high-risk infants. Over the past 15 years, I have led and contributed to a range of single-center and multicenter clinical trials investigating pharmacologic management of patent ductus arteriosus, innovative ventilation strategies including high-frequency jet ventilation and inhaled nitric oxide, and long-term neuroprotection following hypoxic-ischemic injury. I have a strong interest in neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS), serving as site PI and consultant on current national initiatives evaluating treatment strategies and policy impacts. Additional work includes international trials on delivery room stabilization, targeted oxygenation strategies, and less invasive surfactant administration, as well as biomarker research in neonatal sepsis. My ongoing commitment is to generate meaningful, practice-changing evidence that supports both individualized neonatal care and broader system-level improvements.
Statement of Interest
I am excited to express my interest in serving as a Councilor for the Eastern Society for Pediatric Research. As a dedicated member of ESPR for over 17 years, I have a deep commitment to the Society’s mission of advancing pediatric research, mentorship, and collaboration. I have actively contributed through my role on the Social Media Committee, including serving as Chair for the past three years, where I’ve worked to enhance member engagement, visibility, and communication across platforms. With a strong background in both neonatal-perinatal medicine and research education, I am particularly passionate about supporting trainee development, fostering diversity and inclusion, and helping shape the future of ESPR through thoughtful leadership and strategic growth.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
I am committed to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within ESPR by promoting inclusive research practices, mentorship, and leadership. I will advocate for the inclusion of underrepresented pediatric populations in study designs, support mentorship opportunities for trainees from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds, and encourage equitable participation across institutions and regions. I aim to foster diverse representation within ESPR committees, promote culturally responsive education and training, and engage communities in research through inclusive, collaborative models.
Meenakshi Singh, MD
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
I am in interested in Quality Improvement work. I also ensure that equity including parental representation aspect is addressed as we focus to elevate the quality of care provided in our unit.
I have so far worked on revamping the unplanned extubation team and have successfully led to the reduction of rate of 50%. This improvement was equitable racially, primary maternal language and socioeconomic status (maternal insurance)
Statement of Interest
My passion in quality improvement stems from the fact that often times, all the resources spend on generating evidence by basic and translation scientists do not reach our vulnerable patients population in a consistent manner due to system problems in the hospitals. I find it a bottle neck issue. Therefore using principles of Quality science, could ensure that standard of optimal medical practice indeed gets delivered to the patients in a consistent fashion.
My first job after fellowship was at an institution which had strong leadership in quality and had multiple ongoing quality improvement projects. That was my first experience and I felt my calling as I always liked working in a team and do not want to wait for years to finally see the product of our efforts. To get formal training and learn skills and knowledge to lead QI projects, I completed a certificate course from John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health on Quality, Patient Safety and outcome research. My efforts was recognized by NICU leadership and I was given a role of associate director of Quality. I am currently back in my Alma mater for about four years back as a director of quality. I have mentored NICU fellows in various quality improvement projects, which have been presented in various regional and national conference. Three times our QI projects have won the best QI abstract in local conference. Decreased rates of unplanned extubation, improving skin to skin or successfully introducing Intranasal sedation for NICU MRI use, besides improving patient safety has brought a positive change in the attitude of front line staff, team members and also the hospital leadership. \
My ability able to work efficiently in a multidisciplinary team comprising of faculty members, trainee and nurses gives me confidence to expand my presence regionally. Therefore, if my application is accepted for the position of ESPR councilor then I will be able to work smoothly with members of varied experience and interest. I also think this would be an opportunity to learn from experienced members and golden regional networking opportunity.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
I include equity aspect when I start any quality improvement project. Therefore instead of SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time bound) aim, I use SMARTIE (which included Inclusivity and Equity). I have increased aware in our unit among medical and nursing providers, trainee, and other allied staff by sharing this work.
I think encouraging Conference presentations/abstracts on these topics can increase awareness. Also having a place for discussion where members can share their challenges and lessons leant on these topics, can encourage awareness and more future on these issues.
Amy Sloane, MD
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Nemours Children’s Health at Thomas Jefferson University
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
My research interests have focused on risk assessment of early-onset neonatal sepsis, as well as infant feeding and nutrition. I am particularly committed to work that reduces unnecessary interventions while optimizing neonatal outcomes. In addition to ongoing projects in these areas, I am currently serving as a trainee mentor on a prospective observational study evaluating the Neoneur feeding system, which aims to better characterize preterm infant feeding physiology and support data-driven decisions around feeding readiness.
As the Associate Program Director for our Neonatology fellowship, I am deeply invested in trainee education, mentorship, and the design of structured, supportive learning environments. I am currently enrolled in a Nemours-led Master Educator course, which is a 10-month program for inter professional clinicians and medical educators. Through this program, I am strengthening my skills in the cognitive psychology of learning, curriculum development, and evidence-based teaching strategies. This training directly enhances my ability to support fellows and residents in their academic growth, research engagement, and career development.
Statement of Interest
I am interested in serving in the ESPR Councilor role because it mirrors what I aspire to do each and every day: build thoughtful research collaborations, mentor trainees into confident scientific thinkers, and develop high-quality, sustainable trainee education.
I am especially enthusiastic about supporting and enhancing the ESPR annual scientific meeting. As a faculty member of ESPR, I have reviewed numerous abstracts over the past few years and have also had the opportunity to moderate multiple scientific sessions at the annual meetings. These experiences have been consistently rewarding, deepened my engagement with the pediatric research community, and have strengthened my commitment to mentoring trainees in their scientific writing and presentation skills. I would welcome the opportunity to continue contributing to abstract review, session moderation, and innovative program development on a larger scale, and to help identify new ways to strengthen these processes in support of scientific excellence, community, inclusivity, and trainee growth.
Most importantly, I am committed to being an engaged, reliable, and forward-looking Council member. I am prepared to attend all meetings, participate actively in committee work, advocate for membership growth, and support the Society’s strategic priorities throughout the year. ESPR has played an important role in my academic development, and I would be honored to help shape its next chapter by contributing my clinical-research expertise, collaborative experience, and deep investment in trainee success.
Thank you for your consideration.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
I will promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within ESPR by leveraging my strengths as an educator and mentor. My work at Thomas Jefferson University/Nemours has focused on designing transparent trainee evaluation structures, supporting trainees from varied backgrounds, and creating psychologically safe learning environments. These are approaches I would like to see extended to ESPR activities. This includes advocating for equitable and bias-aware abstract review processes, incorporating diverse voices into session planning, and ensuring that trainees, especially those from groups historically underrepresented in medicine, receive meaningful opportunities to present, moderate, and engage with leadership.
I am committed to ensuring that all ESPR activities from session planning to committee work reflect an inclusive environment where all members and trainees feel valued, supported, and are able to contribute meaningfully.
Caterina Tiozzo, MD, PhD
Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital
Candidate Statement
Research Interests
My research focuses on the mechanisms of lung development, lung injury and repair in preterm infants, with particular emphasis on the cellular drivers of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and BPD-associated pulmonary hypertension. Through an integrated translational approach that bridges basic developmental biology with clinical care, in the last 2 years I investigated Amphiregulin (AREG) as a novel biomarker for early prediction and disease phenotyping. This work spans fetal lung organoids, tracheal aspirates, and non-invasive biospecimens such as saliva. I co-lead the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) fetal biorepository, enabling comparative developmental studies that inform how early-life exposures shape long-term respiratory outcomes and conduct clinical studies in neonatal nutrition and oxidative stress—specifically essential fatty acid deficiency, donor milk variability, and TPN light protection. My research is strengthened by collaborations with colleagues across different divisions and institutions, including Mount Sinai, Harvad University, University of Pennsylvania, NYU, and Columbia. Across all my work, my goal is to advance precision medicine approaches that translate biological insight into actionable tools for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy in the NICU.
Statement of Interest
I am applying for the ESPR Councilor position because I am strongly committed to promoting pediatric research, supporting trainees, and contributing to a collaborative scientific community. Throughout my career, I have been deeply engaged in mentoring residents, fellows, PhD students, and research and clinical staff—guiding them through study design, data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and career development. Building strong research teams and helping trainees grow into independent investigators is one of the most meaningful aspects of my work.
I also value cross-institutional collaboration and have actively fostered partnerships across multiple centers to advance rigorous and innovative neonatal-perinatal research. I believe ESPR plays a crucial role in creating these connections and in providing trainees with meaningful opportunities to engage in scholarship and present their work.
As a Councilor, I would contribute enthusiastically to the planning of the annual meeting, support abstract review and trainee awards, and participate fully in council discussions and committee work. I also hope to help establish a cross-institutional mentorship network pairing trainees with investigators outside their home programs; develop small-grants “ Neonatal Science Incubator” to support early pilot studies; and expand DEI-focused pathways by creating structured opportunities for trainees from underrepresented backgrounds, modeled after the support ESPR provided to my mentee who received the ESPR Diversity in the Research Workforce Award. I would also advocate for more multidisciplinary sessions at the annual meeting—linking neonatology with cardiology, developmental biology, microbiology, and nutrition—and explore opportunities for ESPR-led multicenter collaborative clusters. Drawing on my experience mentoring diverse trainees, building cross-institutional research teams, and contributing to multicenter initiatives, I am committed to helping ESPR grow as an inclusive, innovative, and academically dynamic society.
How will you enhance/promote awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion in ESPR activities?
I am deeply committed to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in pediatric research, both through my mentorship and my collaborative work. One of my mentees, Dr. Daisy Reinoso, P born to Ecuadorian immigrants and the first in her family to graduate from college—received the ESPR Diversity in the Research Workforce Travel Award this year. When she was first year resident, she joined my research group and expressed concern that her background might limit her fellowship opportunities. I reassured her that with hard work and the right support, she could succeed anywhere—and this year, she interviewed at the top neonatal programs on the East Coast. Supporting her journey has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of my career.
I also strongly advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in science. One of my longest-standing collaborators and another of my mentees belong to the LGBTQ+ community, and their contributions, like Daisy’s, are reflected in the authorship of my work and the broader diversity of my team. I take a hands-on approach to mentorship, guiding students, residents, and fellows from underrepresented backgrounds and involving them fully in research design, analysis, and scholarship.
As an immigrant and a female faculty member, I deeply value the richness that diverse experiences bring to scientific progress. My work in Haiti, Africa, and other countries has broadened my understanding of cultural diversity and strengthened my ability to practice evidence-based medicine across different environments. Being fluent in three languages also allows me to communicate directly with families from diverse backgrounds, which has been especially meaningful in my work at Kravis Children’s Hospital.
As a Councilor, I would continue to promote DEI by advocating for inclusive trainee programming, equitable review processes, diverse representation among speakers and moderators, and active outreach to underrepresented trainees and institutions. I believe fostering an inclusive, supportive research community is essential to the mission and future of ESPR and to the medical and scientific community in general.
Ballot Instructions:
Please cast your vote for each position below.
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President-Elect: Choose your preferred candidate from the two listed. You can only vote for one candidate.
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Councilor: Rank the six candidates in order of preference for the two open Councilor seats.
*Voting is open to active ESPR members only. Please log in below to access your ballot.
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