ATVB Message from the Chair

Dear ATVB Community,

It is a tremendous honor to serve as the new Chair of the Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology (ATVB). I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such an extraordinary community of investigators, clinicians, trainees, educators, and volunteers who continue to advance our understanding of atherosclerosis, lipids, thrombosis, vascular biology, and everything in between.

As I begin this role, I want to acknowledge the outstanding leadership of those who have come before me. Working with Dr. Kiran Musunuru for the past 2 years as Chair Elect gave me a front row seat to his commitment to our Council. Kiran, on the shoulders of our many excellent Council Chairs of the past, helped build a strong foundation and generated remarkable momentum across our Council. From innovative scientific initiatives to advocacy efforts and trainee engagement, ATVB continues to thrive because of the dedication and passion of its members.

Looking ahead, I am excited to build on this momentum to make our Council a leader within the cardiovascular research community. We are planning initiatives around our mid-career investigators and expanding our research with more international collaborations and opportunities. This will of course be accompanied by our flagship activities such as Vascular Discovery 2027 (co-hosted with BCVS for the first time!) and amazing events by our ATVB Early Career Committee. By fostering innovation, supporting the next generation of investigators, promoting diversity of perspectives, and strengthening interdisciplinary partnerships, we can continue to advance our mission and amplify our collective impact.

Most importantly, however, I believe that the true strength of ATVB lies in its people. Like many of you, I have “grown up” in this Council, having attended my first Vascular Discovery meeting (under its previous name, if you know you know) when I was a fresh-faced PhD student. That first meeting set me on the path of the scientist I am today. What makes this community special is not only the science we produce, but also the relationships we build, the mentorship we provide, and the shared purpose that brings us together. As Chair, one of my highest priorities will be to ensure that every member feels connected, valued, and engaged. Maintaining and strengthening our sense of community is essential to who we are and what we can achieve together.

I look forward to listening, learning, and working with all of you in the months ahead. Thank you for your continued commitment to ATVB and to advancing cardiovascular science. Together, we will continue to build on our successes, embrace new opportunities, and strengthen the vibrant community that is at the heart of ATVB.

Katey Rayner, PhD, FAHA
Chair, Council on Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology