Marshall Summar
Chief Executive Officer,
Uncommon Cures
Dr. Summar is a leading expert in the care of children with rare diseases and currently serves as the CEO of Uncommon Cures, LLC, a clinical trials company focused on streamlining trials and reducing costs through innovative technology. From 2010 to 2022, he led the Division of Genetics and Metabolism at Children’s National, where he founded the Rare Disease Institute, the first dedicated center for genetic rare diseases and the National Organization for Rare Disorders’ designated Rare Disease Clinical Center of Excellence.
Dr. Summar’s research has contributed to the development of treatments and diagnostics for genetic rare conditions, leading to over 170 peer-reviewed publications and new drugs in FDA trials for sickle cell anemia, congenital heart disease, and premature birth. His work has also resulted in over 120 international patents. Known for his focus on nitrogen, ammonia, and amino acid metabolism, particularly the urea cycle, his lab has made significant advancements in rare diseases. Additionally, he has led international initiatives to create standards of care for these conditions. Dr. Summar is also working on RareCap, a new platform for clinical protocols, and has developed telemedicine programs to extend genetic care access to underserved patients.


