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Asha Pillai
Transplant Immunologist & Physician-Scientist at Regeneron
Asha Pillai, M.D., is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Miami's Miller School of Medicine. She also serves as the Deputy Director of Translational Research and Co-Director of the FOCIS Center of Excellence in Human Immunology. Her research primarily focuses on innate immunity, immune tolerance, and transplantation immunology, particularly in the context of pediatric stem cell transplantation and immunotherapy.12
Education and Training
- B.S. in Immunology: Stanford University
- M.D.: Indiana University School of Medicine
- Residencies: Combined Internal Medicine & Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine
- Fellowships: First combined Medicine-Pediatrics Hematology/Oncology/Transplantation fellowship at Stanford, including a Ruth Kirschtein Transplant Immunology Research Fellowship and the K08 Career Development Award from the NIH.13
Research Contributions
Dr. Pillai's research has been NIH-funded since 2007, focusing on developing novel techniques for innate immunotherapy in transplantation. She has established a recognized laboratory at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and has published numerous papers on immunology, transplantation, and immunotherapy.12 Her work has led to innovative clinical trials aimed at reducing toxicity in hematopoietic stem cell transplants for both adults and children.2
Leadership and Involvement
Dr. Pillai has held various leadership roles, including:
- Member of the Transplantation, Tolerance, and Tumor Immunology Study Section at the NIH.
- Active involvement in international medical initiatives, particularly in India.
- Participation on advisory boards for organizations such as the Asian American Donor Program (AADP) and the Federation of Clinical Immunology Societies (FOCIS).123
Personal Interests
Beyond her medical career, Dr. Pillai has a passion for classical South Indian fine arts and has been involved in promoting advanced Hindu studies at academic institutions since 1987. Her interests also include Sanskrit studies and transdisciplinary research initiatives.1
Dr. Asha Pillai is recognized for her significant contributions to pediatric hematology-oncology and transplantation, making her a prominent figure in her field.4
