Conversation, snacks, and the chance to combine the two before hearing a serious scientific presentation: that was the way that Steven Schmidt, Ph.D., vice president of research and dean of the College of Graduate Studies, welcomed an animated crowd to the first NEOMED Research Forum, held March 20. After 30 minutes to socialize, the group of faculty and staff from across the University filled the Ralph Regula Training Room to hear about the research of John Chiang, Ph.D., Distinguished University Professor, Integrative Medical Sciences.
Before Dr. Chiang took the podium, Dr. Schmidt introduced him, thanking him for making NEOMED a leader in liver research through his work. The first (and thus far, only) faculty member to be named a Distinguished University Professor at NEOMED, Dr. Chiang has garnered an impressive amount of federal funding –more than $9 million in just the last decade—over his NEOMED career.
During his presentation on the regulation of bile acid, glucose, lipid and drug metabolism in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and diabetes, Dr. Chiang shared how disruptions to the liver and bile acid—say, from increased alcohol intake and irregular diets—can contribute to fatty liver disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity and more.
Mark your calendar
Faculty, staff and students are all welcome at the new NEOMED Research Forum series, hosted by the Office of Research Sponsored Programs. The quarterly information exchange offers an easy opportunity to meet and connect with researchers and other University members.
The next Forum will be held in May. Further information will be provided in The Pulse.