Two UNMC physician-scientists were recognized for their achievements by the University of Nebraska this spring.
Of the six university-wide awards given out, three were presented to UNMC faculty. Two of the awards are research related. The third, the Outstanding Teaching and Instructional Creativity Award, was given to Ed Vandenberg, M.D., associate professor of geriatrics and gerontology.
Read more about the research award recipients.
Dr. Thomas Porter wins ORCA
Thomas Porter, M.D., Hubbard Chair of Cardiology and professor of internal medicine, first developed a technique using microbubbles to noninvasively image the heart while it is in motion. It’s less costly, and without the toxicity associated with radiologic contrast.
Then, he developed innovative approaches to using this cardiac-ultrasound technology as a means to deliver therapeutic interventions.
He’s now moving toward using this idea to noninvasively break up clots and deliver agents to the vascular endothelium more directly. While this technique still awaits FDA approval in the U.S., Dr. Porter’s methods are being applied in Brazil and the Netherlands.
He is widely recognized as a national leader in cardiac ultrasound, and three companies are at work to bring his breakthroughs to market.
And, he’s been named a 2013 honoree of the University of Nebraska’s Outstanding Research and Creative Activity (ORCA) Award.
Dr. Susan Swindells wins IDEA
In recognition of her role as a world-renowned researcher for HIV-AIDS, Susan Swindells, M.B.B.S., professor of internal medicine and Watanabe Chairwoman for HIV/AIDS Research and Care at UNMC, is the recipient of the University of Nebraska’s highest honor for innovation, the Innovation, Development and Engagement Award (IDEA).
Ever since she arrived at UNMC in 1991, Dr. Swindells has been the primary mover behind the changes in HIV clinical care for adults and children, research and education at UNMC.
Her leadership in clinical trials has brought national attention to the Nebraska AIDS Education and Training Center.
Dr. Swindells has made HIV/AIDS care, education, research and advocacy her mission, almost 24-7. She is a tireless advocate for those that sometimes have no voice.
Dr. Swindells also is a tireless “cheerleader” for HIV/AIDS community awareness, including critical screening services and community education to combat stereotypes and discrimination.