Celebrating Rising Stars in Kidney Research: Division Trainees and Faculty Honored by ASN TREKS

The Division of Nephrology is proud to announce several exciting achievements highlighting our commitment to the next generation of kidney researchers and leaders.

Joshua Chang, a first-year medical student at the University of Utah and lab member in Dr. Yan-Ting Shiu’s lab, has been accepted into the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) TREKS program. The Tutored Research and Education for Kidney Scholars (TREKS) initiative offers a unique, immersive one-week experience designed to spark early interest in nephrology and kidney-related research among medical and graduate students. Josh is currently involved in hemodialysis vascular research under Dr. Shiu’s mentorship, and his selection for this nationally competitive program speaks to both his potential and the strength of the lab’s investigative work.

Niharika Katkam, a PhD student working in the lab of Dr. Srinivasan Beddhu, has also been selected for the ASN TREKS program, which will be hosted this year in Chicago. Her research and academic dedication exemplify the innovative and interdisciplinary spirit encouraged in the Division.

The success of our trainees is supported by the deep involvement of our faculty in national leadership. Dr. Nirupama Ramkumar, faculty member in the Division of Nephrology, serves as Chair of the ASN Kidney TREKS Program Subcommittee, helping guide the vision and implementation of this pivotal training initiative. Her leadership plays a key role in shaping the program’s direction and its impact on emerging scholars across the country.

Congratulations to Joshua, Niharika, and Dr. Ramkumar on these well-earned recognitions. The Division of Nephrology continues to lead in cultivating a pipeline of talented and passionate kidney scholars.