In 2009, Dr. Rullo received the ACR REF Physician Scientist Development Award (PSDA; now the ACR REF Rheumatology Scientist Development Award).
“When I received the PSDA, I was able to help build the pediatric rheumatology research program at UCLA. The PSDA allowed me to spend the majority of my time on research; without it, I would not have had the opportunity to join the faculty in 2009. Because of the award, I was able to devote 80% of my time to pediatric research and have helped further develop that program,” she says.
The next step in her path to becoming an independent physician scientist is to secure federal funding. Last June, Dr. Rullo began the application process for a K series award from the National Institutes of Health. In the meantime, she has once again received support from the REF. The ACR REF/AF Career Development Bridge Funding Award is helping to ensure that Dr. Rullo continues her important research.
“The [K series] application is still in process, so that’s really where the Bridge Funding becomes important,” she says. “You’re in a transition period where you’re trying to grow, and there are few opportunities available to support research. This award had helped me get through that time.”
Once she receives the K series award, Dr. Rullo plans to develop a longer-term, more expanded study of osteopontin levels and other predictors of severe complications that can be associated with pediatric lupus.
“I cannot stress enough how invaluable REF support has been to my career. Studying pediatric lupus is so important. I feel fortunate that the REF has helped me individually, as a researcher, but also globally—supporting the field of pediatric rheumatology,” she says.
The REF funds groundbreaking research resulting in better care and treatment for more than 50 million Americans affected by rheumatic diseases. As the largest private funding source of rheumatology research and training programs in the U.S., the REF has awarded over $50 million to more than 1,000 recipients in the past five years. As a result, rheumatologists and healthcare professionals gain the knowledge and resources to provide their patients with the best possible care. For more information about the REF Awards and Grants program, visit www.rheumatology.org/REF.
