The $50,000 award supports Lee’s research project “Immunomodulatory effects of cellular contamination in plasma products for transfusion.”
“Our project seeks to better understand how the white blood cells in plasma routinely given to patients affects their immune system,” said Lee, who is also a trauma surgeon at USA Health. “Through our research we hope to get a deeper appreciation of the spectrum of effects - both immediate and delayed - of blood product transfusion, and use this information to improve transfusion practices.”
Lee is one of three physicians across the United States to receive the scholarship for 2020-2021. Awardees are selected through a completive process by a committee of well-respected trauma surgeons from within the AAST.
“I’m incredibly honored to be selected for this award, not just for the financial support that will help me further my research efforts, but also the recognition of the work we’re doing here at the USA College of Medicine and USA Health,” Lee said. “I’d like to thank my mentors and colleagues for their ongoing support, and the AAST for their commitment to advancing the science of surgery and mentorship of young physician-scientists.”
