Sana Syed, MD, MSCR, MSDS is a practicing pediatric gastroenterologist who focuses on improving global health and combating childhood undernutrition. Dr. Syed is an Associate professor in Pediatrics and Data Science at the University of Virginia in the United States and Adjunct Research Faculty at the Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan. The Syed Lab uses cutting-edge molecular and data science techniques to study intestinal structure and function in patients with environmental enteropathy, considered the primary driver for stunting in Pakistan, Zambia, and Bangladesh, as well as those with other inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease. Through her NIH-funded research, Dr. Syed aims to transform clinical care and improve health outcomes for children by facilitating precision medicine through enhanced diagnostics and individualized outcome predictions to ensure all children live happy, healthy lives.

In her commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders in science and medicine, Dr. Syed has led training workshops around the world, including in Tanzania, Pakistan, and across the United States, supporting young researchers to pursue and submit grant applications and manuscripts. Dr. Syed is also a champion for improving diversity and enabling career development, having spearheaded several diversity-focused career development and mentorship programs for women and underrepresented minorities in science and medicine all over the world.