Dr. Ali is studying childhood obesity, both by understanding primary autonomic nervous system abnormalities that precede the development of obesity and subsequent cardiovascular effects of obesity. She is researching the relationship of iron to mineral metabolism and its ensuing cardiovascular and skeletal effects in children with CKD and in premature infants. As a member of the Center for Translational Metabolism and Health, Dr. Ali aims to advance her training in translational and patient-oriented research with the goal of building an academic career centered on research that improves the lives of children with chronic disease.