Björn Knollmann, M.D., Ph.D.
Knollmann lands award from Heart Association
Björn Knollmann, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of Medicine and Pharmacology, is the recipient of a National Established Investigator Award from the American Heart Association (AHA).
The five-year award will enable him to advance his research exploring basic mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias and new therapies.
A total of 25 applications were funded out of 163 reviewed.
“I feel both humbled and honored. The established investigatory designation is much more than just another grant.
“The award expresses the recognition of my work by my scientific peers and colleagues,” Knollman said.
Knollmann has been studying how heart cells handle calcium and what role calcium handling plays in cardiac arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats.
His research group reported that deletion of a calcium-binding protein called calsequestrin makes mice susceptible to arrhythmias.
The objective of the National Established Investigator Award is to support investigators who have an established record of accomplishments, show exceptional promise and are mid-career.
“Candidates have a demonstrated commitment to cardiovascular or cerebrovascular science as indicated by prior publication history and scientific accomplishments.
A candidate's career is expected to be in a rapid growth phase, according to AHA literature.