UW hematologist receives grant to work on multiple myeloma

For Release:                                                    

Nov. 21, 2014                                                        

CONTACT: Susan Lampert Smith

(608) 890-5643

ssmith5@uwhealth.org

MADISON, Wis. – The American Society of Hematology (ASH) has awarded Dr. Fotis Asimakopoulos a $150,000 grant to study experimental therapies for multiple myeloma.

Dr. Asimakopoulos is assistant professor of medicine in the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. His research focuses on the genetics of multiple myeloma, myeloma stem cells and the development of genetically engineered models for multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in white blood cells and invades the bone marrow.

The society gives bridge grants to provide interim support for promising hematology research proposals that, despite earning high scores, could not be funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) amid severe funding reductions.

“My situation is typical among many new investigators: I’m entering a zone of uncertainty between dwindling start-up funds and the need for additional investment,” said Dr. Asimakopoulos. “This is a critical time that will determine my ability to launch into a sustainable, productive, and independent career in science and I am grateful to ASH for helping to support me through this period.”