Dr. Katherine King receives Presidential Early Career Award

Dr. Katherine King, associate professor of pediatrics-infectious disease at Baylor College of Medicine, has been named a recipient of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE).

The PECASE awards scientists and engineers who have shown exceptional promise for leadership in science and technology early in their careers, and it is the highest honor the United States Government can bestow.

King’s research investigates how hematopoietic stem cell biology is affected by infection and inflammation. Through her findings, there will be implications for the treatment and prevention of infections in immunocompromised people as well as blood disorders related to inflammatory conditions.

“It is a tremendous honor to be named among the top scientists in the country. I am glad that our government recognizes the power of science to improve health and society,” said King, who is also a member of the Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center and co-director of the Medical Scientist Training Program, both at Baylor.

This award embodies the high priority the government has placed on maintaining the United States’ leadership position in science by producing excellent scientists and engineers, and fostering their continued growth.

The PECASE award was established by the National Science and Technology Council in 1996, and it acknowledges the contribution scientists and engineers have made to the advancement of science, technology, education, and mathematics (STEM) education through demonstrating scientific leadership, public education, and community outreach.