Each year, the ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine bestows its prestigious Next Generation Fellowship awards to early career professionals making noteworthy contributions to the realms of medical genetics and genomics. These fellowships encompass a variety of specialties, including Clinical Genetics, Clinical Biochemical Genetics, Laboratory Genetics and Genomics, Medical Biochemical Genetics, and Ophthalmic Genetics. This year, the foundation expresses its gratitude to several corporate sponsors, including Bionano, Pfizer, Sanofi, Spark Therapeutics, and Takeda, whose generous donations aid in fostering the development of the future leaders in genetic and genomic medicine.
The individuals selected for the 2025 ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship embody the innovative spirit and dedication essential for advancing the field of genomics. As expressed by Nancy J. Mendelsohn, MD, FACMG, the president of the ACMG Foundation, these outstanding clinician-scientists represent the pinnacle of talent in the evolving landscape of genetics and genomics. Their groundbreaking work is poised to propel significant developments in understanding and diagnosing genetic disorders, thereby enhancing patient care. Their work ethic and enthusiasm set a remarkable example for aspiring professionals entering this critical domain.
Among the awardees, Rafael Garrett da Costa, PhD, has been acknowledged with the Clinical Biochemical Genetics Fellowship Award. As a Senior Staff Scientist at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School’s Department of Laboratory Medicine, Dr. Garrett da Costa’s expertise lies in mass spectrometry and metabolomics. His journey began with a BSc in Pharmacy, followed by an MSc and PhD in Chemistry from Brazil’s Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. His research primarily focuses on elucidating rare metabolic disorders and refining laboratory diagnostic methodologies. Over his extensive career, he has authored over 60 peer-reviewed articles, contributing significantly to the available literature in biochemical genetics and nurturing new talent through mentorship.
In his accolades acceptance speech, Dr. Garrett da Costa expressed profound gratitude for the fellowship, acknowledging it as a vital opportunity to broaden his competency in clinical biochemical genetics. His commitment to improving patient testing and care illustrates the fellowship’s pivotal role in transforming individual expertise into broader healthcare improvements, especially for those suffering from metabolic disorders.
The Laboratory Genetics and Genomics Fellowship Award is presented to Atlas Sardoo, PhD, a determined scientist at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Dr. Sardoo, who holds a PhD in Human Genetics, is at the forefront of studying the connections between viral infections and liver cancer. Her research endeavors include developing predictive models to assess cancer risk in patients. Fuelled by her passion for integrating bioinformatics with clinical practices, Dr. Sardoo is poised to utilize the Laboratory Genetics and Genomics Fellowship effectively, with aspirations to apply her insights to genetic testing advancements.
Upon receiving her award, Dr. Sardoo conveyed her appreciation for the acknowledgment, viewing it as an inspiration to further her work in the intersection of clinical genetics and patient care. The importance of genomic research in understanding complex diseases underscores the significance of her contributions to future therapeutic strategies and enhances the potential for improved patient outcomes.
Recognized with the Ophthalmic Genetics Specialty Fellowship Award, Emily S. Levine, MD, MTM, is a notable figure at the Casey Eye Institute, located within Oregon Health and Science University. Dr. Levine’s academic journey led her to obtain a BA in Biology and a minor in Computer Science from Bryn Mawr College, graduating with distinguished accolades. Following her undergraduate studies, she conducted meaningful research in the field of retinal physiology before pursuing a Master’s degree in Translational Medicine. She completed her medical education at Tufts University, where she excelled and immersed herself in innovative ophthalmic research.
Dr. Levine’s commitment to enhancing care for patients with genetic eye conditions has led her to her current role as a chief ophthalmology resident, where she will begin a specialized fellowship focused on ophthalmic genetics this summer. Her heartfelt acknowledgment of receiving the Next Generation Award emphasizes her dedication to serving affected families and advancing the understanding of hereditary eye disorders. The fellowship not only celebrates her previous achievements but also recognizes her future potential in delivering superior care to patients facing genetic ophthalmic challenges.
Lastly, the Medical Biochemical Genetics Subspecialty Fellowship Award is awarded to Daniel R. Brooks, MD, a resident in the combined Pediatrics/Medical Genetics and Genomics program at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital. Dr. Brooks embodies the fusion of clinical competency and patient advocacy, elevating healthcare accessibility. His educational pathway, which includes an MD from the University of Michigan and an undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Pennsylvania, has shaped his holistic view of genetic medicine.
His research endeavors reflect pressing issues surrounding prenatal diagnostics and the identification of rare genetic conditions, striving to expand genetic services to marginalized populations. Dr. Brooks has made noteworthy contributions to the scientific literature, with published works in respected journals such as Human Genetics and Prenatal Diagnosis. His involvement in initiatives like the NIH-funded Project GIVE sheds light on systematic healthcare disparities, providing telehealth services to underserved communities—a testament to his commitment to equitable healthcare delivery.
In his reflections on receiving the ACMGF Next Generation Fellowship award, Dr. Brooks reiterated his dedication to ensuring that genetic medicine is accessible to all individuals, irrespective of their socioeconomic background. The fellowship serves as momentum in his mission to bridge diagnostic gaps and advocate for underrepresented communities, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in cutting-edge medical genetics.
The ACMG Foundation for Genetic and Genomic Medicine has been a pillar in advancing the field since its establishment in 1992. It operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and plays a critical role in nurturing future medical geneticists and genetic counselors while promoting essential research within the field. The organization coordinates efforts to translate genetic discoveries into tangible health benefits, cultivating a community geared towards enhancing patient care through genetic literacy and genomics.
As genetic medicine continues to evolve, the commitment demonstrated by the Next Generation Fellowship awardees sets a foundation for groundbreaking developments in healthcare. The work of these young professionals not only demonstrates the immediate benefits of genomic research but also underscores the significance of continued investment in training and supporting the next generation of leaders in medical genetics. Their stories reflect vibrant aspirations to transform healthcare landscapes, ensuring that advancements in genetic insights translate to real-world applications that significantly enhance patient outcomes globally.
Ultimately, this year’s ACMG Foundation Next Generation Fellowship recipients symbolize hope and progress within the genetic and genomic medicine community. Their diverse backgrounds and research endeavors collectively contribute to the broader mission of the ACMG Foundation—to create better health through genetics, paving the way for the future of medical care and patient advocacy.
Subject of Research: The transformative role of early career professionals in medical genetics and genomics
Article Title: ACMG Foundation Recognizes Next Generation of Leaders in Genetic and Genomic Medicine
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Web References: https://www.acmgfoundation.org/ACMGF/Who-We-Are/Vision_and_Mission/ACMGF/Who/Vision_and_Mission.aspx?hkey=4ed44ad4-196d-4875-96e3-d10eead7b19b
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Keywords: ACMG Foundation, Next Generation Fellowship, Medical Genetics, Genomics, Genetic Research, Patient Care, Fellowship Award
