Science, Research & Awards
We are dedicated to scientific innovation.
As grant-makers, we support pioneering studies in the vascular space.
As research partners we catalyze discovery, serving as administrators and active members of multidisciplinary collaborations that drive progress in vascular science.
Wylie Scholar Program
The Wylie Scholar award is designed to support outstanding young vascular surgeon-scientists who are dedicated to an academic career combining their clinical practice with original, innovative research.
Since 1996, over 25 surgeon-scientists at 15 institutions around the country have become Wylie Scholars and their work is transforming patient care. Each year, the new grantee is selected by a committee of previous Wylie Scholars. Over the years, the award has supported crucial research that has enabled Wylie Scholars to become North America’s world-class vascular surgeon-scientists. Many are now chiefs at major academic centers, prominent leaders in the field, and play a key role in our programs. The quality and rigor of the selection process are demonstrated by the fact that the average return on investment for follow-on research funding is 41:1.
Wylie Scholar Application
Each year, a Wylie Scholar is selected from a competitive group of applicants. This year, the award provides $50,000 for one year, and may be subject to renewal for a second year. The key criteria for selection of the potential Wylie Scholar is a demonstrated aptitude for and interest in vascular research, skill and promise in vascular surgery, teaching ability, and leadership qualities.
The Wylie Scholar application period is now open. Please visit the Wylie Scholar Application page for more information.
Wylie Scholar Annual Report
Explore our Wylie Scholar Annual Report which highlights the achievements of past and present Scholars whose discoveries continue to shape the future of vascular science.
Wylie Scholar
Research Highlights and Mentorship
Wylie Scholar Mentor
University of Michigan
Dr. Katherine Gallagher serves as the Wylie Scholar Mentor, where she connects scholars with relevant scientific expertise to inform and discuss approaches to their Wylie research project, provides guidance and planning support to optimize future project opportunities, and creates networking opportunities with other surgeon scientists in the field. The Foundation appreciates Dr. Gallagher’s dedication to supporting early-career vascular surgeons.
Dr. Katherine Gallagher studies how to improve wound healing in patients with Type II diabetes, a severe problem that frequently leads to amputation, with the goal of developing new treatments.
In 2022, Dr. Gallagher was elected to the National Academy of Medicine for her innovative research on epigenetic regulation of immune cells. “Election to the Academy is considered one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine and recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and commitment to service.”
University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
Dr. Sara Gaines, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Section of Vascular Surgery and Associate Program Director, General Surgery at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, has been selected as the 2025 Wylie Scholar award recipient for her proposed project, The role of microbial uremic toxins on endothelial and smooth muscle cell regulation of neointimal formation in arteriovenous fistulas. This project addresses a significant health problem related to chronic kidney disease (CKD), which affects millions of individuals worldwide.
Harvard Medical School
Dr. Patric Liang, Assistant Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School, has been selected as the 2024 Wylie Scholar Award recipient for his proposed project, Biodegradable Hydrogels for Perivascular Delivery of Targeted Gene Therapy to Improve Prosthetic Bypass Graft Patency. Dr. Liang intends to investigate the clinical translation and applicability of a novel gel developed by his team, designed for application to the artery during bypass surgery.
University of Pittsburgh
Dr. Tzeng is focused on translational studies of vascular healing and wound healing, and is developing treatments to treat abnormal cell growth following angioplasty. Her research involves studying the effect of carbon monoxide and nitric oxide in preventing inflammation and injury after angioplasty procedures. Dr. Tzeng is studying ways to reduce inflammation, and has shown significant positive outcomes in the healing process in animals. The ultimate goal of her research is to bring these agents to clinical application.
Support Wylie Scholars
Each $150,000 Wylie award, has generated $6.1 million in additional national research funding.
By supporting our Wylie Scholar Program, you are investing in an award that has on-going impact.