By Satina Richardson

Marina Gorbatyuk, PhD, associate professor, has been invited by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to serve as a peer reviewer in the study section for the Biology of the Visual Systems Study Section, Center for Scientific Review. The appointment is for 4-years and places Gorbatyuk at the heart of the NIH’s grant process. 

According to the NIH, membership on a study section represents a major commitment of professional time and energy as well as a unique opportunity to contribute to the national biomedical research effort. Study sections review grant applications submitted to the NIH, make recommendations on the applications to the appropriate NIH national advisory council or board, and survey the status of research in their fields of science.

“It is not only a great honor, but also a responsibility since I will participate in the peer review system,” she said. “A reviewer plays a central role in the NIH mission. I believe this is very important mission in promoting scientific discoveries and saving lives.” 

She was nominated because of her demonstrated competence and achievement in her scientific discipline as evidenced by the quality of your research accomplishments, publications in scientific journals, and other significant scientific activities, achievements and honors. 

Gorbatyuk’s is a retinal cell biologist and researcher whose career is in the field of gene therapy and the development of neuroprotective strategies.