The ACR Research and Education Foundation turns 25
Rheumatology Fellowship Training in the U.S.: The REF Stimulus
This year is the 25th anniversary of the ACR Research and Education Foundation (REF), and the REF has evolved considerably since its founding in 1985.
Without You, ACR REF Wouldn’t Be Here
In 1998, the ACR Research and Education Foundation (REF) funded a total of $500,000 in grants. This year, the REF funded more than $4.6 million in grants through its core portfolio, which is an increase of over $4 million in funding capabilities in just 10 years. The REF also achieved the distinction of becoming the second largest funding source—just behind the National Institutes of Health (NIH)—of rheumatology research and training programs in the United States and was recently awarded the prestigious four-star rating from Charity Navigator. These achievements could not have been realized without the generous financial support of REF donors.
Rethink Rheumatoid Arthritis Research
Are there genetic indicators that can help rheumatologists identify the people who are at risk for developing the disease? Are there environmental factors that trigger rheumatoid arthritis (RA)? Simply put, what causes RA and how do we treat and cure it?
My Michael Moore Moment
In which an angry letter finds its mark, to no avail
ACR REF Niche Award Helps Define a Research Career
Joyce Hsu, MD, has always been interested in pediatric medicine and she found a perfect niche for herself in pediatric rheumatology. She completed a pediatric residency at the University of California, Los Angeles and worked as a general pediatrician for a year while considering rheumatology.
Final Chance to Apply for 2008 ACR Committee Positions
All ACR members are invited to volunteer. Nominate yourself or a colleague by June 1 to be considered for a position beginning at the ACR Annual Meeting in November.
REF Award Opens New Doors for Young Investigator
Do you know that old adage about the best-laid plans? If you ask Jon T. Giles, MD, about it, he’d agree that even the firmest plans change. “When I entered medical school at Vanderbilt University, I was convinced that I’d pursue subspecialty training in neurology,” recalls Dr. Giles. “My plan was to specialize in movement disorders.”
Honoring Our Winners
The ACR Research and Education Foundation (REF) maintains an extensive award and grant program with research, training, and education opportunities for medical students, fellows, clinicians, researchers, health professionals, and academic institutions. This month, the REF continues to recognize its latest group of award recipients, who will begin their award terms in July.