Dr Burlak is a Professor of Surgery at the University of Miami. He is internationally recognized for his contributions to the field of xenotransplantation. His research has focused on overcoming the shortage of life saving human organs through the development of genetically modified pigs as organ donors. He and his group have overcome molecular and immunologic incompatibilities that have previously prevented pig organs and cells from being considered clinically. Application of cutting edge technologies has made possible the creation of pigs with multiple genetic modifications in as little as 6 months. Dr. Burlak is also recognized as a leader in the development and application of proteomic and glycomic technologies. His research group has characterized numerous proteins and carbohydrates that comprise the differences between pigs and humans. These studies have brought collaborations with experts from around the world to field of xenotransplantation.
In 2013 Dr. Burlak received the international Carl Groth Xeno Prize for the most influential manuscript published in the field of xenotransplantation for that year. Dr. Burlak also co-mentored and co-authored the publication that was awarded the 2014 Carl Groth Xeno Prize.