Joan Beckman Lab

Dr. Joan Beckman has research expertise in sickle cell disease (SCD), hemophilia, polycythemia vera (PV), and other coagulation abnormalities. Research concentrations in SCD and myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are similar as they both involve investigating drivers of vascular activation. Beckman Lab group is working to apply in vitro and in vivo vascular models to study how the endothelium contributes to myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) thrombosis and vaso-occlussion in SCD.  Dr. Beckman works closely with Dr. David Wood's Living Devices lab in Biomedical Engineering. Beckman Lab group has recently published an endothelized microfluidics model in the Journal of Haemostasis and Thrombosis. MPN research concentration explores how vascular activation drives thrombosis risk. To date, MPN research has received an NHLBI- K08 Award as well as funding from the American Heart Association Career Development Award, internal awards from the American Cancer Society, Masonic Cancer Center, and the MPN Research Foundation.

Dr. Beckman also works closely with Drs. Belcher and Vercellotti to study SCD vascular activation research. Indeed, during graduate training, SCD research ignited Dr. Beckman's passion for hematology. Using SCD mice, we are working to identify common inflammatory pathways that trigger vaso-occlusion and pain. Thus far, SCD-related studies have received the American Society of Hematology (ASH) Bridge Award, and the University of Minnesota COVID-19 Bridge and Assistant Professor Startup awards.

Overall research objective is to make substantial contributions towards identifying drivers of thrombosis and inflammation that arise in the critical interface between the vascular endothelium, immune system, and hematopoietic system. Dr. Beckman is passionate about mentoring studies. Individuals working in Joan Beckman lab group will develop skills in molecular biology, animal models, and vascular endothelial biology. Dr. Beckman enjoys mentoring learners of all levels, and currently has a group of  undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral students in translational hematology.  Individuals interested in joining the lab can inquire with administrative assistant regarding positions.