Despite current challenges to the field of infectious diseases, particularly in terms of research funding, I am pleased to share that our ID Section finished the year on a strong note. We are celebrating successes in building the pipeline of future experts in infectious diseases, public writing, and research funding.

During this year's competitive fellowship match cycle, in which 55% of all ID programs went unfilled, we were fortunate to have matched five wonderful trainees into our program. I am pleased to welcome the newest fellows to Yale Infectious Diseases: Johanna Gleason-Vergados, MD; Olivia Man, MD, MPH; Frank Mulindwa, MD, PhD; Anthony Nassar, MD; and Jose Luis Paredes Sosa, MD. Notably, I would like to congratulate Dr. Mulindwa, who has been awarded the Yale International Physician-Scientist Resident and Fellow Research Award from the Office of Physician-Scientist and Scientist Development, reflecting his commitment to advancing infectious disease research.

Two recently graduated Infectious Diseases fellows, Simone Blaser, MD, and Morgan Goheen, MD, PhD, are leading voices in the field. Earlier this month, Blaser co-authored a piece on the impact of the recent government shutdown on research, advocating for the critical work we do. In a separate op-ed, Goheen addressed the clinical aspect, raising concerns about infectious disease physician shortages.

Lastly, I would like to congratulate Frederick Altice, MD, MA, who received a $7.5 million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to fund a new hepatitis C care initiative in Connecticut.⁠⁠ Read more about the initiative in the story below.

This newsletter highlights advances in disease screening, awareness, and more. As we begin 2026, I want to thank each of you for your dedication and wish you a happy new year.