Anna Parks Receives American Society of Hematology Junior Faculty Scholar Award

Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah proudly announces that Anna Parks, MD, Huntsman Cancer Institute investigator, assistant professor in the Division of Hematology and Hematologic Malignancies and Center on Aging faculty member, has been awarded the American Society of Hematology (ASH) Junior Faculty Scholar Award. This prestigious career development award provides $150,000 in funding over 2–3 years, supporting promising early career hematologists dedicated to advancing the field through innovative research.

"I am delighted to congratulate Dr. Parks on receiving this award. This recognition is a testament to her exceptional dedication, innovative research, and unwavering commitment to advancing the field of hematology,” says Ramiro Garzon, MD, chief of Hematology and Hematological Malignancies at Huntsman Cancer Institute and University of Utah Health. “Dr. Parks' contributions have already made a significant impact, and I am confident that her future work will continue to drive important advancements in our understanding and treatment of hematological malignancies.”

Parks specializes in non-malignant hematologic disorders, particularly thrombotic conditions. Her commitment to providing compassionate, individualized care underscores her dual dedication to treating disease and enhancing her patients’ quality of life. As a clinician and researcher, Parks seeks to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and patient care.

“It is an incredible honor to receive the ASH Scholar Award, following in the footsteps of so many amazing Huntsman Cancer Institute faculty members,” Parks says. “I’m grateful to be able to continue our work that integrates the best of aging science, including a focus on quality of life and patients’ goals, with the best of hematology, including a mechanistic understanding of thrombosis. Thrombosis affects 900,000 Americans annually, and I’m grateful for the support from ASH to work to improve the quality of their care.”

“I’m grateful to be able to continue our work that integrates the best of aging science, including a focus on quality of life and patients’ goals, with the best of hematology.”

Her research explores the intersection of aging and hematology, aiming to improve outcomes for older adults with blood disorders. Through her work, Parks addresses the unique challenges faced by this population, developing strategies to optimize treatment and care. Her research has previously garnered support from the National Institutes of Health and ASH, reinforcing her growing influence.

Beyond her research and clinical work, Parks is passionate about mentoring and teaching the next generation of hematology leaders. Her dedication to education ensures that future clinicians and researchers are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to continue advancing the field.

“Dr. Parks' contributions have already made a significant impact, and I am confident that her future work will continue to drive important advancements in our understanding and treatment of hematological malignancies.”

The ASH Junior Faculty Scholar Award is a testament to Parks' dedication, expertise, and potential to contribute to hematology significantly. Huntsman Cancer Institute and the University of Utah celebrate her achievements and look forward to the continued impact of her work on patients and the broader medical community.