Halabi to lead Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Apheresis in Department of Pediatrics
Physician-scientist specializes in vascular physiology and children’s kidney disorders
Nichols PhotographyCarmen Halabi, MD, PhD, a leader in the research and treatment of pediatric kidney disorders, was recently named director of the Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Apheresis in the Department of Pediatrics at WashU Medicine.
Carmen Halabi, MD, PhD, an associate professor of pediatrics, has been named director of the Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Apheresis in the Department of Pediatrics at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. An outstanding medical investigator who has developed an independent research program, she will bring both leadership and innovation to the division. Her new appointment began July 1.
“Dr. Halabi is an exemplary physician-scientist and an outstanding clinician,” said Gary A. Silverman, MD, PhD, the Harriet B. Spoehrer Professor of Pediatrics and head of the Department of Pediatrics. “Her work has the potential to influence developing scientists and physicians as well as contribute to cutting-edge treatments for some of our most vulnerable pediatric patients.”
Halabi specializes in vascular physiology and children’s kidney disorders. Her research focuses on studying the extracellular matrix, a vital support network that provides elasticity to tissues such as blood vessels, lungs and skin and allows for their normal function. Using mouse studies, she examines how mutations in extracellular matrix genes cause abnormal vascular development and disease, potentially aiding future treatment of aneurysms and hypertension. Recognized for her growing expertise, she is often invited to speak at national and international conferences.
“I was drawn to WashU Medicine because it enabled me to blend my passion for science and nephrology with my love of teaching and caring for children,” Halabi said. “Medical breakthroughs — especially those that can impact our young patients — have come so far, but we still have so much to learn. I am grateful for the opportunity to guide, inspire and care for even more people through this new leadership role.”
Halabi joined WashU Medicine’s Department of Pediatrics 16 years ago as a resident at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Following her residency, she completed a fellowship in pediatric nephrology at WashU Medicine in 2015. She has since advanced from instructor to assistant professor, then associate professor of pediatrics. She is also an associate professor of cell biology and physiology. Halabi holds a PhD in genetics and a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Iowa, where she also earned her MD.
Halabi succeeds David A. Hunstad, MD, a professor of pediatrics and director of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, who served as interim director of the Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Apheresis for nearly a year.
