“During her time with us she has been actively engaged in the research projects of 24 different College of Nursing faculty, acquiring a broad range of research experience.” -Yelena Perkhounkova, PhD, statistician manager, College of Nursing

Hometown: Seoul, South Korea

Faculty mentor/advisor: Sandra Daack-Hirsch, PhD, RN, FAAN, professor, executive associate dean, College of Nursing

What is your degree program and anticipated graduation date? College of Nursing, Spring 2024

Please describe your research: My dissertation focuses on children with heart disease. Children with heart disease are at risk for growth failure and development issues due to functional and structural defects of the heart. Problems with physical growth have clinical implications as an indicator of child’s health condition, as well as a predictor of the short and long-term prognosis of disease. The goal of my research is to scientifically evaluate the risk of growth failure in children with heart disease and to establish a theoretical framework for intervention to promote optimal growth by identifying predictive factors.

In simple terms, why does this research matter? It is expected that a more accurate understanding of the mechanisms of growth failure in congenital heart disease will help achieve optimal growth by identifying high-risk groups, recognizing abnormal growth patterns early, and providing timely interventions.

How soon after starting at the University of Iowa were you able to participate in research? I was given the opportunity to participate in research around the first year after admission.

How has being involved in research made you more successful at the University of Iowa? I have been a Graduate Research Assistant for the Office of Nursing Research and Scholarship since the fall of 2020. I have participated in various research projects of the College of Nursing as a member of the statistical support team. Through this, I co-authored several manuscripts and was able to accumulate specific experience in conducting research. This experience was a great help in developing my dissertation.

What are your career goals and/or plans after graduation? After graduation, I would like to continue my nursing research as a nursing scholar to improve the health and quality of life of children with congenital heart disease.

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