Dr. Summar is a pioneer in the care of children with rare diseases and currently serves as CEO of Uncommon Cures, LLC, a clinical trials company focused on consolidating trials and using innovative technology to reduce time and cost. He joined Children’s National in 2010 and still leads the Rare Disease Institute Laboratories. After 12 years, he stepped down in 2022 as Chief of the Division of Genetics & Metabolism and Founding Director of the Rare Disease Institute.

Dr. Summar's lab focuses on devices, diagnostics, and treatments for genetic rare conditions, resulting in over 170 peer-reviewed publications and over 100 international patents. His work has led to new FDA clinical trials for drugs targeting sickle cell anemia, congenital heart disease, and premature birth. He also develops standards of care and treatment for rare diseases and leads a project to create a software platform for clinical protocols called RareCap.

Board-certified in Pediatrics, Clinical Genetics, and Biochemical Genetics, Dr. Summar has served as President of the National Organization for Rare Disorders and the Society for Inherited Metabolic Disorders. He has been awarded NORD's Lifetime Achievement Award and serves on numerous boards and advisory committees.