UAMS Researcher Childs Named Prestigious AAA Fellow

By Nate Hinkel

Childs is one of fewer than 70 scientists nationwide and just the second from Arkansas to have earned the distinction. UAMS’ John Pauly, Ph.D., was among the first group of AAA fellows named in 2007.

“To join such a small and distinguished group of scientists, especially being just the second in Arkansas, is a tremendous honor,” said Childs, professor and chair of the Department of Neurobiology and Developmental Sciences at UAMS. “The tribute must also be shared by my collaborators and colleagues who have helped, encouraged and supported me. I am grateful for their support and the support I have received at UAMS.”

The distinction honors AAA members who have demonstrated excellence in science and in their overall contributions to the anatomical sciences. The rank of fellow has been granted to only 68 scientists nationwide, and recipients are considered to be in the top 10 percent of eligible AAA members. Childs, who was nominated by Charles Blake, Ph.D., a colleague at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, will be honored at the association’s annual meeting in Washington, D.C., in April.

UAMS is the state’s only comprehensive academic health center, with colleges of Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Health Related Professions and Public Health; a graduate school; a 540,000-square-foot hospital; a statewide network of regional centers; and six institutes: the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute, the Jackson T. Stephens Spine & Neurosciences Institute, the Myeloma Institute for Research and Therapy, the Harvey & Bernice Jones Eye Institute, the Psychiatric Research Institute and the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging. It is the only adult Level 1 trauma center in the state. UAMS has 2,836 students and 761 medical residents. It is the state’s largest public employer with more than 10,000 employees, including nearly 1,150 physicians who provide medical care to patients at UAMS, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, the VA Medical Center and UAMS’ Area Health Education Centers throughout the state. Visit www.uams.edu or uamshealth.com.