KGHRI clinician scientist recognized for work with inherited bleeding disorders

Dr. Paula James, clinician scientist at the KGH Research Institute and one of Canada’s leading researchers in inherited bleeding disorders, has been honoured with the Cecil Harris Award by the Canadian Hemophilia Society.

The award is presented to a physician in recognition of distinguished contributions in the areas of research or the advancement of the care of patients with inherited bleeding disorders. The award has not been presented in 10 years.

“I’m proud and humbled to receive this national honour,” says Dr. James, who is also a Professor in the School of Medicine, Queen’s University. “It was made even more special to receive the award from my mentor Dr. David Lillicrap.”

“Dr. James’s research continues to have a profound impact on the health of Canadians with these conditions, and on inherited bleeding disorder research worldwide,” says Roger Deeley, Vice President of Health Sciences Research , Kingston Health Sciences Centre, and President of the KGH Research Institute. “We are thrilled to see her recognized in this way.” 

Drs. James and Lillicrap are principal investigators of the Clinical and Molecular Hemostasis Research Group, located jointly between Queen’s and Kingston General Hospital. The group uses a variety of experimental approaches to understand the molecular basis of blood coagulation and to develop strategies to translate this knowledge into clinical benefits.

After completing her training in internal medicine at the University of Saskatchewan, Dr. James came to Queen’s to complete her clinical hematology fellowship. She then entered a  30-month training in basic laboratory research in the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine. During this time, she honed her talents as an accomplished clinician and researcher in the field of inherited bleeding disorders.

In her clinic, Dr. James directs the Southeastern Ontario Regional Inherited Bleeding Disorder Program and has established a Women’s Bleeding Disorder Clinic. Her expertise in the care of von Willebrand Disease (VWD) – a lifelong bleeding disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot – has been recognized by the international bleeding disorder community. She also leads a research program with a focus on VWD and hemophilia.

“For sure, an award like this is a recognition of a team effort,” says Dr. James.  “I’m fortunate to work with great people on a daily basis.”

Dr. James’ Let’s Talk Period website features a bleeding assessment tool to help women that may be suffering from bleeding disorders. More than 2,000 women have taken the test in 106 countries and the website has had more than 15,000 views.

“Receiving this award has given me even more motivation to work harder and help more people,” says Dr. James. “I’m committed to my patients and passionate about my work and I want to help. That’s always been my goal.”

For more information on the award please visit the Canadian Hemophilia Society website.