Hawk-IDDRC Research Projects

The cornerstone of the Hawk-IDDRC is our Research Project. As we look to the renewal of the Hawk-IDDRC program, we need to consider a new Research Project to take us into the future. One that focuses on translational research that builds collaborations between clinicians and research scientists. 

This year, we have identified two new innovative projects that will receive $25,000 each in funding from our annual Hawk-IDDRC pilot grants and could very well be the next Hawk-IDDRC Research Project. 

2025 Winning Researchers

Arlene Drack, MD, Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences

Her project will collect information about the social, behavioral, and other cognitive traits of individuals with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome across the lifespan. This project will also investigate whether the administration of an anti-oxidant, N-acetyl cysteine, in an animal model with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome influences behavior and cognition. 

Aislinn Williams, MD, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychiatry

Her project will identify promising peripheral biomarkers for advancement of therapeutic studies for SCN2A-related neurodevelopmental disabilities. These projects will be made possible with funding from the Hawk-IDDRC, a P50 Center grant funded through the National Institutes of Health, housed within the Center for Disabilities and Development.