Carlos M. Ferrario, MD, professor emeritus of general surgery, was recently selected as a 2023 Distinguished Scientist by the American Heart Association’s (AHA) Distinguished Scientist Selection Committee.
This honor is bestowed upon AHA or American Stroke Association members who have advanced the understanding, management and treatment of cardiovascular disease, stroke and/or brain health.
Ferrario, who is noted for his contributions to identifying angiotensin-(1-7) and the importance of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in regulating cardiac function and blood pressure control, has authored or co-authored 516 peer-reviewed manuscripts, 78 chapters in books and published five books. Additionally, Ferrario founded the Hypertension and Vascular Research Center at the School of Medicine.
The process of selecting Distinguished Scientists begins with a call for nominations as candidates must be nominated and complete a rigorous application process. The Distinguished Scientist Selection Committee is made up of past Distinguished Scientists and other top leaders in the field. They are tasked with peer review of the nominations and narrowing their selection to a maximum of six deserving awardees each year. This year over 40 nominations were received so the competition was formidable.
Including this year's awardees, there are 144 Distinguished Scientists that who have been elected since the award's creation in 2003.
The AHA is dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, they fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources.