Robert A. Star, MD, has been named director of the Division of Kidney, Urologic, and Hematologic Diseases at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), by Institute Director Dr. Griffin P. Rodgers. Dr. Star has been acting director of the extramural research division since September 2006 and was appointed director Feb. 26, 2008. As division director, Dr. Star will oversee a $400 million program of grants and contracts.

Dr. Star's background and expertise lies in the early identification, prevention and treatment of sepsis and acute kidney injury.

This article originally appeared in the March 2008 issue of AAKP Public Policy Briefing.