Showcasing Innovation: Highlights from the 2nd Annual UW IHDD Research Day

The Institute on Human Development and Disability (IHDD) was thrilled to host the 2nd annual UW IHDD Research Day. This event showcased the multitude of cutting-edge research, community projects, and regional initiatives centered at the IHDD. Over 100 attendees participated in this year’s event.

The event was hosted by Dr. Sandra Juul, the director of the IHDD and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center (IDDRC) and Dr. Mark Harniss, the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) director. The keynote address was given by Dr. Vittorio Gallo. Dr. Gallo was recently appointed as the senior vice president and chief scientific officer of Seattle Children’s Research Institute after serving for several years as the director of the IDDRC at Children’s National in Washington DC. Dr. Gallo is an international leader in the field of neonatal brain research, and his research focuses on investigating injury and development of the brain and potential interventions aimed at improving brain regeneration and repair after perinatal injury.

The event welcomed 12 oral presenters and 32 poster presenters from a wide range of scientific disciplines. The interdisciplinary and collaborative environment at the IHDD was highlighted throughout the event. Presentations ranged from genetic and molecular studies to animal models, clinical trials, implementation science, and community advocacy and partnerships. It showcased the IHDD as the epicenter for innovative work focused on development, brain science, disability, inclusivity and empowerment.