Alumni Scholars

The KL2 program has been a game changer in my research career and provided me with a solid foundation to become a successful independent health disparities researcher. [It] allowed me to expand my research knowledge through a MS in Clinical Translational Science. Prior to the KL2 program, my research was limited to retrospective reviews and survey research. The protected time allowed me to conduct my first prospective observational pilot study. Since completion of the program, I have received continuous grant funding. The KL2 was instrumental in taking my research career to that next level and my grant funding and publication success are testaments to this amazing program.

Heather Prendergast, MD, MS, MPH, FACEP  |  Professor of Emergency Medicine, Co-Asst. Dean of Clinical Affairs

2022- 2024 Heading link

CATS Scholars

Christian Ascoli, MD
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, UIC College of Medicine

Sarah Messmer, MD
Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine and Pediatrics, Department of Medicine, UIC College of Medicine

Kristine Zimmermann, PhD, MPH
Research Assistant Professor, Department of Community Health Sciences, UIC School of Public Health, Department of Family and Community Medicine, UI College of Medicine- Rockford

CATS Affiliates

Monica Lee, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, UIC College of Medicine

Joann Romano-Keeler, MD, MS
Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, UIC College of Medicine

Camila Zamperini, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Restorative Dentistry, UIC College of Dentistry

2020-2022 Heading link

Mia (Maan Isabella) Cajita, PhD, RN
Assistant Professor, Department of Biobehavioral Health Science, UIC College of Nursing

Betsy Cliff, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Health Policy and Administration, UIC School of Public Health

Andrew Riley, PhD
Assistant Professor, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, UIC College of Pharmacy

Natasha Crooks, PhD, RN
Assistant Professor, Department of Women, Children and Family Health Science, UIC College of Nursing