Leonardo Ferreira, PT, PhD, Named Chair of NIH Cardiovascular Study Section

Leonardo Ferreira, PT, PhD, associate professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Interim Division Chief and Vice Chair for Research at Duke University School of Medicine, has accepted an invitation from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to serve as Chair of the Integrative Myocardial Physiology/Pathophysiology B (MPPB) Study Section within the Cardiovascular and Respiratory Sciences Integrated Review Group.

Ferreira’s term will begin July 1, 2026, and run through June 30, 2028, placing him in a national leadership role within the NIH’s Center for Scientific Review (CSR), which oversees the peer review of grant applications across the biomedical sciences.

Chairs of NIH study sections play a critical role in guiding the scientific review process for federally funded research. The MPPB Study Section evaluates NIH grant applications focused on integrative and translational research in myocardial physiology and pathophysiology, including mechanisms of cardiovascular disease and therapeutic approaches to improve cardiac function.

“Service on an NIH study section—and particularly as chair—is both a responsibility and an honor,” said Ferreira. “It represents an opportunity to help shape the future of biomedical research by ensuring the highest standards of rigor, innovation, and equity in the peer review process.”

The invitation, extended on behalf of NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya, MD, PhD, reflects Ferreira’s national and international reputation as an integrative and translational research scientist. According to the NIH, individuals nominated to serve on Integrated Review Groups are selected based on demonstrated scientific achievement, publication record, leadership, and the ability to exercise sound judgment and objectivity in evaluating research proposals.

In his role as chair, Ferreira will work closely with Scientific Review Officers and fellow experts to oversee the review of grant applications, facilitate scientific discussion during review meetings, and help provide recommendations to NIH advisory councils. Study sections also assess emerging trends and evolving priorities within their respective scientific fields, helping guide the broader direction of federally funded research.

At Duke, Ferreira directs a research program and lab focused on skeletal muscle and cardiovascular physiology, emphasizing mechanisms behind functional impairment and disease progression. As Interim Division Chief and Vice Chair for Research, he also mentors faculty, fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhances Duke Orthopaedics’ research efforts.

“Ferreira’s appointment as chair of an NIH study section highlights his stature as a scientist and leader,” said W. Todd Cade, PhD, PT, FAPTA, professor of orthopaedic surgery and division chief of the Doctor of Physical Therapy. “It also reflects the strength of Duke’s research environment and its influence on national funding priorities.”