The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has honored Dr. Benjamin S. Ko, MD, with the Mid-Career Distinguished Educator Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to nephrology education at both institutional and national levels. This award celebrates mid-career professionals whose work demonstrates supporting educational excellence, impactful mentorship, and commitment to lifelong learning.
An associate professor in the Section of Nephrology at the University of Chicago, Dr. Ko has consistently demonstrated the core values celebrated by the award: dedication to teaching, development of innovative educational programs, and leadership in shaping the future nephrology workforce.
Over nearly two decades, Dr. Ko has played a pivotal role in medical education; from pre-clinical curriculum development to advanced fellowship training. He co-directs the MS1 Cell and Organ Physiology course at the Pritzker School of Medicine and is a core faculty member and Associate Program Director of the nephrology fellowship. His ability to make complex science easy to understand and showing how it connects to real-life patient care has earned him numerous accolades, including multiple teaching awards from the University of Chicago and recognition as a favorite educator among medical students and residents.
Dr. Ko has had a national impact on the world of nephrology. As Director of the ASN’s Tutored Research and Education for Kidney Scholars (TREKS) program, he has helped create a pipeline of future nephrologists by engaging medical students in meaningful kidney research and mentorship. He has also contributed significantly to ASN’s educational and workforce development efforts, including serving on the Kidney Week Education Committee and the Training and Workforce Committee.
His scholarship in renal physiology and electrolyte disorders is matched by his service as an invited speaker, moderator, and contributor to educational and clinical guidelines across major national conferences. Through his mentorship, he has shaped the careers of numerous fellows and junior faculty.
Dr. Ko’s work demonstrates the spirit of the Mid-Career Distinguished Educator Award. Not only advancing nephrology education through innovation and dedication but also inspiring the next generation of kidney health professionals to pursue excellence with intellectual curiosity and compassion.