Aaron Hamvas

Aaron Hamvas, MD, is a Professor of Pediatrics (Neonatology) at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Chief of Neonatology at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. His research bridges clinical neonatology with genomic investigations of lung diseases affecting newborns, children, and adults.

Education

• MD: Washington University (1981)
• Residency: Saint Louis Children's Hospital Pediatrics (1984)
• Fellowship: Saint Louis Children's Hospital Pediatrics (1990)
• Board Certification: Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine

Dr. Hamvas investigates genetic mutations in pulmonary surfactant proteins causing newborn respiratory distress and adult pulmonary fibrosis. His work combines exome sequencing with NIH-funded studies on autonomic nervous system regulation and physiologic monitoring of premature infants. Key focus areas include bronchopulmonary dysplasia, surfactant dysfunction syndromes, and developmental outcomes.

Recent publications examine genetic testing implementation, environmental exposure impacts, and physiologic data analytics. His research receives support from the NIH and collaborates with the Center for Genetic Medicine and Institute for Innovations in Developmental Sciences.

Scientific Awards

• Feinberg School of Medicine Pediatrics Department - Excellence in Scholarship (2024)
• Midwest Society for Pediatric Research - Founder's Award (2022)
• Chicago Magazine - Top Doctors (2022)
• Castle Connolly Medical - America's Top Doctors (2004)

Dr. Hamvas serves on editorial boards of the Annals of the American Thoracic Society and Fetal and Neonatal Pathology. He leads professional societies including the Perinatal Research Society and American Thoracic Society committees, advancing neonatal research frameworks.