06/08/2026
It is my distinct privilege to inform the University of New England community that Julia M. Balboni has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 David M. Biondi, DO Award for Excellence in Research.
The David M. Biondi, DO Award for Excellence in Research—formerly the UNE COM Research Excellence Graduation Award—is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to advancing medical science. This honor recognizes students who position themselves at the forefront of their graduating class through distinguished publications, impactful presentations, and sustained engagement in complex biomedical or clinical research. The award is named in honor of Dr. David M. Biondi (UNE COM ’85), currently the Vice President of Clinical Development at Alder Biopharmaceuticals. Dr. Biondi has built an illustrious career in academia and the pharmaceutical industry, leading critical clinical trials in headache and pain disorders. His work is highly regarded for addressing complex clinical issues, from chronic migraine management to the economic burden of patient side effects.
Doctor Balboni has established herself as a prolific and impactful contributor to orthopedic surgery research, with a particular emphasis on foot and ankle sports medicine and surgical outcomes. Her recent work is highlighted by her leadership in international consensus statements and systematic reviews published in Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, and Arthroscopy. Beyond sports traumatology, Doctor Balboni has contributed significantly to surgical safety and rehabilitation, investigating the neurologic complications of peripheral nerve blocks and the efficacy of blood flow restriction therapy on muscle strength recovery. Her portfolio demonstrates impressive versatility, spanning from technical surgical approaches in lumbar spine access to the psychological impact of scoliosis bracing in adolescents. Based on the impressive body of work Doctor Balboni conducted here at UNE COM, we are certain that she will continue to advance research and patient-centered care throughout her career.
Please join us in commending Doctor Balboni’s dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and her significant contributions to the research community at UNE COM and the broader medical field. Her academic portfolio serves as a testament to the rigorous scientific inquiry we strive to foster within our institution.
