DownSyndrome Achieves is proud to announce the appointment of Nicole White, PhD, MBA, as the new Principal Investigator for DSA Biobank. Dr. White has coordinated the DSA Biobank’s operations since 2017 and is also a parent of a child with Down syndrome, bringing both deep operational knowledge and personal commitment to her expanded leadership role.
“Having a child with Down syndrome while working in this field gives me a unique perspective,” said Dr. White. “I’m not just facilitating research anymore—I’m personally invested in what that research discovers. It’s made me a more effective advocate for both the families we serve and the scientists we support.”
Dr. White is a Field Service Assistant Professor in the Division of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, where she focuses on improving healthcare experiences for children with developmental disabilities. Her research has been funded by multiple organizations committed to advancing care for individuals with disabilities, and she has published studies specifically examining caregiver perspectives and improving healthcare systems for people with intellectual developmental disabilities.
“Nicole has been instrumental in building the DSA Biobank from the ground up,” said Lito Ramirez, CEO of DownSyndrome Achieves. “Her combination of operational expertise, research experience, and personal experience makes her the right person to lead us into this next phase. She understands both the science and what families need from us.”
As Principal Investigator, Dr. White will oversee all aspects of the DSA Biobank’s operations, ensuring that biological samples and health information are collected and shared with researchers studying conditions that disproportionately affect people with Down syndrome—including congenital heart defects, autoimmune disorders, leukemia, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Her appointment comes at a crucial time, as the DSA Biobank expands to support more studies that could lead to breakthrough treatments and better health outcomes for the Down syndrome community. Under her leadership, the DSA Biobank will continue to serve as a bridge between families willing to participate in research and scientists working to improve lives.
“I talk to families all the time about why this research matters,” Dr. White said. “We’re not just collecting data—we’re working with families for a future where our kids have better health outcomes and more opportunities.”
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