Driving Equity in Transplantation: Dr. Jonathan Daw’s Journey with the PE Lab

Dr. Jonathan Daw is an Associate Professor of Sociology & Demography at the Pennsylvania State University. His research focuses on health disparities in organ transplantation, and he has made significant contributions to the field through his work on living donor kidney transplantation.

Dr. Daw’s journey with the PE Lab began when he reached out to the National Kidney Registry with a data-related inquiry. His question was forwarded to Amy (in her capacity as NKR research director), which led to a meeting at the next American Transplant Congress. Already an admirer of Amy’s work in the field, Dr. Daw saw this as a natural opportunity for collaboration. His involvement with the PE Lab has since flourished, reinforcing his commitment to advancing equitable access to transplantation.

Jonathan’s work in living donor kidney transplantation aligns seamlessly with the PE Lab’s mission of fostering patient-centered, equity-oriented research. In addition to their collaborative research efforts, Jonathan, Amy, and other PE lab members have also secured a funded grant, further supporting their work in addressing systemic barriers in transplantation. The persistent disparities in access to organ transplantation have driven his passion for ensuring that systemic barriers are addressed. By collaborating with the PE Lab, he aims to contribute to research that not only identifies these barriers but also implements strategies to mitigate them.

So far, Dr. Daw has collaborated with PE Lab members on multiple research papers utilizing the lab’s collected and analyzed data. As the lab transitions into a Center, he anticipates deepening these collaborations and further expanding research that advances equitable access to transplantation. His vision includes fostering interdisciplinary partnerships and leveraging data-driven insights to shape policies and interventions that benefit patients.

For Jonathan, one of the most rewarding aspects of being part of the PE Lab is the opportunity to engage with researchers from diverse backgrounds who share a commitment to patient-centered and equity-driven work. The lab’s collaborative spirit and interdisciplinary approach have been instrumental in broadening his perspectives and strengthening his research.

While research remains a central passion, Dr. Daw has a variety of interests outside academia. He has been an avid road cyclist for years, though he recently embraced the convenience of a pedal-assist e-bike. Additionally, he is a skilled cook and sourdough baker, enjoys taking his beagle mix on scenic walks through Happy Valley, practices yoga, participates in fantasy football, and has recently discovered a love for cooperative video gaming with his wife on their Nintendo Switch.

Dr. Daw envisions the PE Lab playing a pivotal role in dismantling long-standing barriers to equitable access in living donor kidney transplantation. He believes that by prioritizing a patient-centered approach, the lab can help drive meaningful policy changes and interventions that will expand access to life-saving treatments for all patients, regardless of their background.

For anyone considering joining the PE Lab, Dr. Daw offers simple but impactful advice: Just do it! Whether you’re already engaged in the field or looking to explore it, the PE Lab’s wealth of resources and collective expertise provide an incredible opportunity to expand your impact and learning. The lab fosters a collaborative environment that welcomes new perspectives, making it an ideal space for those committed to patient-centered research.

Through his work with the PE Lab, Dr. Daw continues to be a driving force in the pursuit of equity in kidney transplantation, helping to bridge gaps and bring life-saving treatments to those who need them most.