Research into how exercise helps children recover from burns
leads to practical applications at Shriners Hospitals for Children-Galveston
GALVESTON - Oscar Suman, an associate professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, has won special recognition from President Obama for his work in helping children recover from burns. Suman, who led a team of researchers that developed practical applications for children who were treated at Shriners Hospitals for Children-Galveston, is one of 100 researchers selected nationally to receive the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. The award is the highest honor bestowed by the United States on professionals in the early stages of their careers. Suman and the other recipients will receive their awards in the fall at a White House ceremony. "This award recognizes the great work Dr. Suman is doing in the area of burns research and treatment," said Dr. David Herndon, head of UTMB's Blocker Burn Unit and chief of staff at the Shriner's facility. "His work exemplifies the great role that research at Shriners Hospitals for Children in Galveston plays in helping children recover from severe burns." Suman specializes in developing exercise regimens to help children recover from burns. "To apply my research and training to help children with severe burns is a blessing. These children are so resilient. I am willing to do anything for these children," said Suman, who joined UTMB in 2000. "We use the tool of exercise to help the children recover physically and mentally." Dr. Courtney Townsend, chairman of the department of surgery at UTMB, said that the recognition "is a tribute not only to Dr. Suman's personal achievements but also to Dr. Herndon's leadership and development of a long line of world renowned clinicians and scientists who, through UTMB's longstanding relationship with the Shriners Hospital for Children, have provided innovative burn care to children here and throughout the world." Dr. Garland D. Anderson, executive vice president and provost of UTMB, said that he was "extraordinarily proud of Dr. Suman and his accomplishments. We are pleased that Dr. Suman is continuing the UTMB tradition of being at the cutting edge of burns research." In a news release issued by the White House, President Obama said that "these extraordinarily gifted young scientists and engineers represent the best in our country. With their talent, creativity, and dedication, I am confident that they will lead their fields in new breakthroughs and discoveries and help us use science and technology to lift up our nation and our world." The awards were established by President Clinton in 1996. Nine federal departments and agencies meet annually to nominate the researchers. Criteria for being nominated include innovative research, scientific leadership and community outreach. The winning scientists and engineers receive up to a five-year research grant.