About
Robert J. Alpern is the Ensign Professor of Medicine (Nephrology) and Professor of Cellular and Molecular Physiology at Yale School of Medicine. He holds primary appointments in the Department of Medicine and secondary affiliation with Cellular & Molecular Physiology, and is affiliated with the Yale Institute for Global Health and Yale Ventures.
Education:
- BA, Chemistry, Northwestern University (1972)
- MD, University of Chicago (1976)
- Residency, Internal Medicine, Columbia Presbyterian Hospital (1979)
- Postdoctoral Fellowship, Nephrology, University of California, San Francisco (1982)
Research Interests: Dr. Alpern’s research centers on the regulation of kidney transport proteins, with a focus on acid-base equilibrium, renal tubular acidosis, membrane transport proteins, and nephrology. His work delves into renal circulation, electrolyte elimination, and urinary function, integrating molecular and clinical approaches to understand kidney physiology.
Publication Trends: His recent scholarly output spans clinical nephrology, molecular physiology, and academic medicine policy. Articles address metabolic alkalosis, renal transport mechanisms, pharmacological interventions in chronic kidney disease, and the sustainability of research funding in academic medical centers. His work combines experimental biology with clinical trials and policy analysis.
Scientific Awards:
- National Academy of Medicine
- American Society of Clinical Investigation
- Association of American Physicians
- NIH Merit Award
- John P. Peters Award (American Society of Nephrology)
Advising and Grants: While specific students are not listed, Dr. Alpern has mentored numerous trainees through his leadership roles. He has led major research initiatives and served on national advisory councils, including the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. His work has been supported by sustained federal and institutional funding, including an NIH Merit Award, reflecting long-term research excellence.
Labs and Teams: Dr. Alpern has led research teams focused on renal transport physiology, particularly in the areas of acid-base regulation and citrate metabolism. He has collaborated extensively with researchers such as Pat Preisig and Xuefei Tian, contributing to foundational knowledge in nephrology and cellular physiology.
