The Division of Nephrology, Dialysis, and Transplantation is the only pediatric nephrology program in the state of Iowa with dialysis and transplant capabilities for all pediatric age groups. The UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital Pediatric Dialysis Center opened in late 2010.

The multidisciplinary team of experts including pediatric nephrologists, specialized nurses, social workers, and nutritionists are located all around the state of Iowa, and develop protocols and standardized evidenced based treatment approaches. 

Research in the division includes NIH-funded clinical trials that are nationally and internationally recognized. The faculty research includes exciting new developments and evidence for hemodynamic monitoring, fluid management, dialysis timing, and extracorporeal support for critically ill patients. Many collaborative research opportunities exist close at home and throughout the country.

The division is home to an outstanding ACGME approved fellowship program. Opportunities are available to study rare renal diseases such as Dense Deposit Disease and atypical HUS.

Key research interests in the division include:

• acute renal injury or failure
• hyperkalemia
• proteinuria
• congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract
• pediatric urinary tract infections
• continuous renal replacement therapies in very low birth weight infants
• urinary metabolomic markers of aminoglycoside nephrotoxicity in newborn rats
• atypical haemolytic uraemic syndrome
• pediatric COVID-19 vaccine