Member Spotlight: Krystalyn Hudson, PhD

Associate Professor of Pathology and Cell Biology and Co-Director of the Laboratory of Transfusion Biology

Columbia University

New York, NY

How long have you been an AABB member?

Since 2012

In which AABB volunteer activities are you currently active? In which have you participated?

I am currently the chair of the AABB Foundation Grants Review Committee, where I lead the scientific review process for early-career investigator grants and work closely with AABB Foundation leadership to support the next generation of transfusion medicine and biotherapies researchers. I also serve as a mentor in the AABB Mentoring Program, advising junior investigators nationally and internationally as they prepare competitive scientific foundation grant applications, navigate early-stage career decisions and work toward academic promotion. In addition, I contribute to AABB’s educational mission through my role on the eLearning Committee, helping identify emerging scientific topics and develop content that reflects the rapidly evolving landscape of transfusion medicine.

Previously, I served as a grant reviewer for the AABB Foundation and on the Annual Meeting Selection of Abstracts Committee. These roles strengthened my connection to the community and deepened my understanding of the breadth of research conducted across our field.

What motivates you to partake in AABB committees and activities?

My motivation comes from a commitment to community building, mentorship and scientific collaboration. Supporting junior investigators through reviewing grants, mentoring or participating in educational initiatives is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. Volunteering through AABB keeps me engaged and continually learning; reviewing scientific content and helping shape educational programs. It also pushes me to stay current with new discoveries, methodologies and challenges in our field. Most importantly, contributing to a strong and supportive professional community feels essential for sustaining innovation, inclusivity and excellence in transfusion medicine.

How has your work with AABB impacted your professional work?

Participating in these volunteer groups has provided valuable opportunities to connect with other professionals in the field and learn from their expertise. These interactions have broadened my perspective, enhanced my knowledge and strengthened my ability to apply best practices in my own work.

What have you learned from your involvement with AABB? And what advice would you give to someone intereseted in expanding their involvement with our association?

Through AABB, I have learned how essential community, mentorship and shared purpose are to advancing transfusion medicine. I’ve gained an appreciation for the diversity of expertise within our field and for how much we all benefit when we contribute our time and perspectives. It has also reinforced how impactful even small contributions can be: one mentoring session, reviewing one grant, helping shape one educational session.

My advice to someone interested in becoming mroe involved in AABB is simple: start small, say yes and be open to where the opportunities lead you. AABB offers roles for every stage of career development, and each one provides a chance to grow, contribute and connect. Your contributions support our broader community and accelerate your own professional development in ways that are both unexpected and deeply rewarding. 

Who is your favorite musician?

Ben Platt.