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- Orthopedic Surgery chief residents ready to take flight
Photos by Dwight Andrews/UTHealth Houston The Department of Orthopedic Surgery’s chief residents gathered atop Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center for a team photo featuring the Life Flight helicopter before pausing for a selfie in front of the Houston skyline. - Champions of Clinical Learning Environment: Hasan and Bhandari
The Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston congratulates Ansam Hasan, MD, and Karthik Bhandari, MD, on being honored as Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. Champions are identified through the Learning Environment Surveys, which are sent... - Yatsu Day Symposium scheduled for Aug. 14
Join the UTHealth Houston Institute for Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease for its 16th annual Yatsu Day Symposium Aug. 14 at the Fayez S. and Susan K. Sarofim Research Building. Yatsu Day aims to increase physicians’ and trainees’ knowledge of the... - Brian Dean appointed UT System executive vice chancellor for health affairs
As you have seen in recent announcements from UT System (external link) and President Melina Kibbe (external link), Brian Dean has been named Executive Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs for The University of Texas System. This appointment recognizes the outstanding... - Agrawal to serve as national voice for medical students
Likhit Agrawal, a third-year student at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, will help shape national policy on medical education and healthcare after being elected vice chair of the American Medical Association’s Medical Student Section Governing Council (external link). Agrawal... - UTHealth Houston researchers redefine how to assess reflux disease
Researchers from UTHealth Houston have helped develop a new classification system designed to bring greater consistency and precision to how physicians evaluate one of the body’s most important barriers against acid reflux. The work, led by Nirav Thosani, MD, MHA,... - Remembering Stacey Hall, DO, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Stacey Hall, DO, associate professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, died July 3. “Dr. Hall was an extraordinary physician whose life’s work was dedicated to helping children with disabilities reach... - Finding Balance
From celebrating championship seasons to exploring new destinations, enjoying time with family and taking to the open road, members of the McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston community find numerous ways to recharge. Whether close to home or far away,... - Celebrating excellence in biomedical research
Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Dean’s Research Award, Madison Shyer, Paula Bender, Jesus Duran Ramirez, Shannon Erhardt, and Ryan Sloan. McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston awarded five scholarships ranging from $1,500-$3,000 to recognize post-candidacy graduate students who... - Annual benefits open enrollment starts July 15
Mark your calendars. The FY27 annual benefits open enrollment for UTHealth Houston employees is July 15-31. During open enrollment, benefits-eligible employees can review and update their benefits elections without a qualifying life event. This is also an opportunity to update... - UTHealth Houston study reveals DNA’s hidden physical language
DNA has long been viewed as life’s instruction manual, with its sequence of genetic letters directing everything from growth to disease. But new research suggests those letters tell only part of the story. New research from Matthew Baker, PhD, assistant... - Applications for T32 research training program open July 27
Clinical and translational research trainees have an opportunity to receive dedicated funding, advanced training, and mentorship through the Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences T32 Training Program beginning July 27. The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston... - Ugartemendia earns inaugural Beckman Award
Lierni Ugartemendia, PhD, has been named the inaugural recipient of the UTHealth Houston Beckman Award, a new honor established by the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs to recognize exceptional service and leadership within the postdoctoral community. The Beckman Award was created... - Remembering Robert Yetman, MD, Department of Pediatrics
Robert Yetman, MD, professor of pediatrics and vice chair for clinical operations at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, who also served as chief medical officer of Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, died June 28. “Dr. Yetman was not only a... - New service-learning grant supports community partnerships
Two McGovern Medical School faculty members will transform community partnerships into hands-on learning opportunities after receiving the inaugural Service-Learning Grant Award from the Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. Jane Hamilton, PhD, MPH, associate professor in... - McGovern Medical School bookstore relocates ahead of fall semester
Students returning for the 2026-27 academic year will find the McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston bookstore in a new location. As the medical school moves forward with construction of its new interactive learning studio in the bookstore’s previous basement... - Champions of Clinical Learning Environment: Atai and Stafford
The Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston congratulates Faith Atai, MD, and Irene Stafford, MD, MPH, MS, on being honored as Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. Champions are identified through the Learning Environment Surveys, which... - Emergency medicine hosts future STEM leaders
Photos by Greg Metoyer, UTHealth Houston The Department of Emergency Medicine hosted junior high students participating in the National Creating Exciting Futures in STEM Challenge for an immersive introduction to emergency response and lifesaving skills. The event introduced students to... - Scooter injury motivates 11-year-old to champion helmet safety
On the evening of April 14, 11-year-old Halle Neely told her stepsister that she had become an expert at riding her electric scooter. “I had ridden it for maybe three weeks, and I thought I was a pro by then,”... - Bright’s award-winning workshop reframes medical professionalism
By encouraging educators to view professionalism concerns through the lens of executive function and strengths-based feedback, Asia Bright, PhD, earned the Medical Education Scholarship Award from the Southern Group on Educational Affairs (external link). The award honors outstanding poster and... - Pioneer in HPV research and cancer prevention to give Withers Lecture
One of the top physician-scientists in cervical cancer prevention in the U.S., Diane M. Harper, MD, MPH, MS, will present the 2026 Henry W. Withers Lecture in Family Medicine on July 8. Harper, a professor of family medicine, obstetrics and... - Starting strong at McGovern Medical School
Photo by Dwight Andrews/UTHealth Houston Chief residents from the Department of Internal Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston pose for a fun group photo after taking their new department headshots. - More than Medicine
From the beach to mountain roads, marathon miles, lakeside trails, and city walks, members of the McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston community find different ways to step away, recharge, and enjoy time with family, friends, and the outdoors. Have... - Lally honored with pediatric surgery section’s highest distinction
A career focused on advancing surgical care for children has earned Kevin Lally, MD, MS, the William E. Ladd Medal from the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Surgery (external link). As the section’s highest honor, the William E. Ladd... - Ask the Expert: Your ER doctor’s guide to surviving summer
Summer in Houston is one of my favorite times of year—pool days, beach trips, backyard barbecues, fireworks, camping adventures, and long evenings spent outdoors with family and friends. It’s also the time of year when emergency departments see a predictable... - Researchers seek clues to brain swelling after aneurysm
The rupture of an aneurysm in the brain triggers an immune response that activates white blood cells to produce specific proteins. Overproduction of the protein LRG1 is associated with complications after subarachnoid hemorrhage including more cerebral edema and worse neurological... - Dean’s Dialogue showcases momentum across McGovern Medical School and UTHealth Houston
The second Dean’s Dialogue on June 11 offered McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston faculty and staff a wide-ranging look at the momentum shaping the university in 2026. Areas discussed were celebrations of student success, preparations for the FIFA World... - Ask the Expert: World Cup travel and Ebola risk
Welcome to Ask the Expert, a UTHealth Houston newsroom series in which leading physicians examine pressing health challenges. In this edition, we address the Ebola outbreak in Congo and Uganda and how the United States could be affected through... - Champions of Clinical Learning Environment: Cowling and Gupta
The Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston congratulates John Cowling, MD, and Rajesh Gupta, MD, MS, on being honored as Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. Champions are identified through the Learning Environment Surveys, which are... - Italy names Triolo a Knight of the Order of Merit
One of Italy’s highest civilian honors recognizing exceptional service and achievement has been awarded to Fabio Triolo, DdR, PhD, MPhil, professor and Clare A. Glassell Distinguished Chair in the Department of Pediatric Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.... - Marsden named new director of Postdoctoral Affairs
Returning to the institution where she once trained as a postdoctoral fellow, Autumn Marsden, PhD, has been named director of the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (external link) at UTHealth Houston, bringing both firsthand experience and a passion for building community among... - Wellness in Focus
This edition of McGovern Recharge celebrates the moments that bring our community energy and perspective outside of work. Whether honoring veterans through music, celebrating a wedding, or visiting unforgettable places around the world, these experiences remind us of the importance... - Empowering families through emergency readiness
Working with patients and families who live with autism and neurodevelopmental disabilities, Pauline Filipek, MD, recognized that disaster readiness looks different for everyone. After witnessing the challenges many families faced following Hurricane Harvey, Filipek and the LoneStar LEND team researched... - University launches advanced PET/MRI imaging service
UTHealth Houston has launched a state-of-the-art PET/MRI imaging service, bringing together two advanced imaging technologies into a single integrated platform designed to enhance precision cancer care, support clinical research, and expand opportunities in molecular imaging. The service combines positron emission... - World Cup at NRG Stadium to impact campus traffic
Thousands of soccer fans from around the world are expected to descend on Houston for FIFA World Cup matches at NRG Stadium within days, increasing traffic near the Texas Medical Center and prompting campus leaders to urge UTHealth Houston students,... - Reflecting on progress, looking forward to what’s next
As we close out the academic year, I continue to be inspired by the talent, compassion, and sense of community that define McGovern Medical School. This has been a season marked not only by individual achievement, but also by meaningful... - Physician Educator Certificate Program celebrates 10 years
The Physician Educator Certificate Program at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston recently marked a major milestone during its graduation luncheon, celebrating a decade of preparing residents and fellows to become future physician educators. Launched in 2016, the Physician Educator... - From tragedy to tradition: The Henry Strobel Retreat
What began as a response to chaos and uncertainty in the aftermath of a devastating flood has grown into one of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston’s most enduring traditions. The Henry Strobel Retreat, now a decadeslong rite of passage... - Love honored with Ashbel Smith Distinguished Alumni Award
Few honors carry greater significance for a medical school graduate than recognition from their alma mater. For LaTanya J. Love, MD, dean of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, that recognition came in the form of the Ashbel Smith Distinguished... - Monday named Texas Medical Association president-elect
The Texas Medical Association elected Kimberly Monday, MD, professor in the Department of Neurology at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, as its 2026 president-elect during TexMed, the association’s annual conference. Monday will serve one year in office before being... - Morcos receives Aneurysm and AVM Foundation Patient Choice Award
Patients and families impacted by brain aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations have recognized Jacques Morcos, MD, for his dedication to compassionate care and long-term patient support, naming him the recipient of the Niekro Aneurysm and AVM Foundation Patient Choice Award. The... - Zhu wins McGovern’s exceptional clinical teacher award
Michael L. Zhu, MD ’18, assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, has been named the 2026 recipient of the John P. McGovern Award as the exceptional clinical teacher. The John P. McGovern... - Institute of Perioperative Medicine celebrates first year, advances
Each year, millions of patients survive surgery only to face a different and often overlooked threat: organ failure in the days that follow. Perioperative death remains the third leading cause of death in the United States, behind heart disease and... - LinkedIn ranks UTHealth Houston a 2026 top company
A commitment to employee growth and workplace excellence has placed UTHealth Houston among Houston’s top employers on LinkedIn’s inaugural Top Companies: City Edition list (external link). Compiled by the LinkedIn News team, the annual ranking highlights organizations that provide strong opportunities... - AI in medical education
Hilary Fairbrother, MD, MPH; Allison Ownby, PhD, MEd; Peggy Hsieh, PhD, MEd; and McGovern Medical School students Samyuktha Senthil Kumar and Cassidy Edwards led the AI in Medical Education retreat. The hands-on workshop brought together faculty and staff to explore... - Pilot study examines how disrupted eating patterns may fuel chronic inflammation
A new pilot project, funded by the Texas Medical Center Digestive Diseases Center Pilot Feasibility Award, explores how lifestyle habits tied to the body’s internal clock may shape gut health and influence the development of age-related disease. Led by Xiangsheng... - Research study links anti-aging protein to chronic disease protection
A protein long studied for its connection to aging may also play a key role in protecting the body from chronic disease, according to new research from the laboratory of Mikhail Kolonin, PhD, published in Aging Cell (external link). Telomerase... - Next Dean’s Dialogue scheduled for June 11
You are invited to join Dean LaTanya J. Love, MD, and other McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston leaders for the next Dean’s Dialogue June 11 in MSB 3.001 or via Zoom. This community gathering will feature updates from school... - McGovern researchers lead two of three newly funded CPRIT projects
Two McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston researchers are leading newly funded projects among three UTHealth Houston awards from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas, securing more than $6 million to advance cancer treatment, prevention, and translational research... - Bailey named Red Duke physician of the year
Memorial Hermann Health System has named Marshall Bailey, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, as the winner of the Dr. James “Red” Duke Jr. System Physician of the Year Award. Named in honor of the legendary trauma... - Where We Recharge | May 28, 2026
The first edition of the McGovern Recharge photo gallery highlights the many ways our community resets and recharges outside of work. From hiking and camping to celebrating with family, gardening, and reflecting on special memories, each photo captures a meaningful... - Kao delivers presidential speech for Surgical Infection Society
Lillian Kao, MD, MBA, MS, professor in the Department of Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston and chief of the Division of Acute Care Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, presented the 2026 Presidential Speech at... - UTHealth Houston celebrates graduates at spring 2026 commencement
With diplomas in hand and bright futures ahead, UTHealth Houston graduates marked a major milestone during spring 2026 commencement ceremonies. Held May 12 and 13 at NRG Arena, the ceremonies marked a defining moment as graduates step forward into professions... - Nursing leader earns doctorate to strengthen clinical teams
Sarah Wall, DNP, MBA, AGACNP-BC, had already been leading nurse practitioners and physician assistants for years when she decided to earn her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Leadership and Administration from Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston. “I’m... - Pediatrics to host Firearm Injury and Prevention Conference June 5
Gun violence remains a leading cause of death in the U.S., even among children. The Department of Pediatrics invites the community to attend an important day of discussion and education focused on firearm injury prevention on Friday, June 5, at... - Hulsebosch wins John H. Freeman Award
Claire E. Hulsebosch, PhD, professor in the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, is the 2026 recipient of the John H. Freeman Award for Faculty Teaching. Chosen by the senior class, the John H. Freeman Award recognizes McGovern Medical School’s outstanding... - In memoriam: Charles Ericsson, MD
Charles Ericsson, MD, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, died May 17. He was 81 years old. Ericsson held the Dr. and Mrs. Carl V. Vartian Professorship in Infectious Diseases and was a tenured professor of medicine at McGovern... - Congratulations, doctor! McGovern Medical School celebrates Class of 2026 commencement
Photos by Dwight Andrews, UTHealth Houston The McGovern Medical School Class of 2026 officially earned the title of doctor at the 2026 Commencement Ceremony, May 12, inside NRG Arena. The 245 graduates celebrated the end of their medical school journeys... - McGovern Medical School holds interactive leadership retreat
Leaders from across McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston gathered in the Fifth Floor Gallery for an interactive leadership retreat designed to strengthen alignment across the school’s education, research, and clinical missions. The in-person working session brought together 75 leaders... - UTHealth Houston study suggests new target for metastatic breast cancer treatments
A peptide that successfully targeted and killed metastatic cancer cells in mice may open the door to developing more efficient ways to detect and treat metastatic breast cancer in humans, UTHealth Houston researchers have discovered. The research was published in Molecular... - Bludworth, Traylor honored with national laboratory management awards
Two UTHealth Houston laboratory animal care professionals earned national honors for leadership in research support and management, a first for the university. Jacqueline Bludworth and Cneshia Traylor, from Laboratory Animal Medicine and Care, were honored at the 2026 Laboratory Animal... - Neurobiology and Anatomy names Galan 2026 outstanding student
The Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy has named fourth-year medical student Jacob Galan as the winner of the 2026 Outstanding Student in Neuroscience Award. A native of San Antonio, Galan attended Trinity University. From there he joined the McGovern Medical... - Dannenbaum wins Benjy F. Brooks, MD, Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award
Mark Dannenbaum, MD, associate professor in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, is the 2026 recipient of the Benjy F. Brooks, MD, Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award. Established in 1991 by the McGovern Medical School Alumni Association, the Benjy Brooks... - UTHealth Houston hosts 2026 Scientific Retreat
Photos by Dwight Andrews, UTHealth Houston The McGovern Medical School Pediatric Research Center and UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry’s Center for Craniofacial Research continued their longstanding collaboration with the 2026 Annual Joint Retreat, bringing together faculty, trainees, and research staff.... - Obesity Medicine Association announces award in Horn’s honor
The Obesity Medicine Association has established a new honor recognizing excellence in education, naming its inaugural Deborah Bade Horn Educator of the Year Award in tribute to Deborah Horn, DO, MPH, professor in the Department of Surgery at McGovern Medical... - Class of 2026 to celebrate commencement May 12
Students from the Class of 2026 will officially earn the title of “doctor” at the 2026 McGovern Medical School commencement ceremony May 12. Festivities begin 9 a.m. at NRG Arena, 1 NRG Pkwy. Graduates should arrive between 7 and 7:30... - Space Medicine faculty lead on national and international stages
As global interest in human spaceflight continues to accelerate, faculty from UTHealth Houston’s Department of Emergency Medicine are helping shape the future of medicine beyond Earth. Leading this effort is Kris Lehnhardt, MD, director of Space Medicine at UTHealth Houston,... - Neerukonda named Texas Medical Association Student of the Year
The Texas Medical Association named fourth-year medical student Sanjay Neerukonda as the 2026 Outstanding Student of the Year at TexMed, the association’s annual conference held in Corpus Christi, Texas. Established in 1998, the Texas Medical Association’s Medical Student Section (external... - McGovern Medical School honors 2026 teaching excellence awardees
Congratulations to the 2026 winners of the Dean’s Teaching Excellence Awards. May is Teaching Excellence Month at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. Since 2025, the awards have shifted focus toward junior faculty. Senior faculty who have been awarded the... - Family and Community Medicine to host Nixon Lecture
Join the Department of Family and Community Medicine as they host the Sam and Elizabeth Nixon Lectureship in Family Medicine at 1 p.m. May 13 in MSB 2.135 and via Zoom. Zoom Meeting Number: 161 688 4156Zoom Password: 339830 Keynote... - Abeln named top student in gross anatomy
The Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston has awarded fourth-year medical student Andrea Abeln with the 2026 Outstanding Student in Gross Anatomy Award. Abeln entered medical school as a nontraditional student after leaving her... - Tumor-on-a-chip brings new insight to pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat, in large part because tumors do not exist in isolation. Instead, they are surrounded by a dense and complex network of blood vessels, connective tissue, and immune cells that... - Jantea wins Distinguished Faculty Award in Professionalism
The McGovern Medical School Office of Professionalism has named Rachel Jantea, MD, MS, professor of medicine in the Joan and Stanford Alexander Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, the recipient of the John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Distinguished Faculty... - UTHealth Houston leaders elected to prestigious medical society
The Association of American Physicians has elected Melina R. Kibbe, MD, and Daniel Sessler, MD, to its 2026 cohort, recognizing their outstanding contributions to biomedical research. The Association of American Physicians (external link), founded in 1885 by Sir William Osler and... - UTHealth Houston establishes Department of Cardiology at McGovern Medical School
UTHealth Houston has announced the establishment of the Department of Cardiology at McGovern Medical School, marking a significant milestone in the university’s efforts to advance cardiovascular care, research, and education across the region. The new department, led by founding chair Biswajit Kar, MD,... - Jayaraman named chair of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Following a national search, I’m pleased to share that Vasanthi Jayaraman, PhD, has been named chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, effective May 1. Dr. Jayaraman is an outstanding leader and a committed member of the McGovern... - Run for the Rose
UTHealth Houston Neurosciences served as a sponsor of the 22nd annual Run for the Rose 5K and Family 1K at TMC Helix Park, supporting brain tumor research and awareness. This meaningful event honors the legacy of Dr. Marnie Rose, former... - Shine Academy grant fuels training in medication safety
The University of Texas Kenneth I. Shine, MD, Academy of Health Science Education has awarded Nuzha Amjad, MD, assistant professor of geriatric and palliative medicine, a 2025-26 Shine Academy Small Grant. Amjad received the grant as principal investigator for her... - UTHealth Houston-developed cancer therapy platform takes major step toward clinical translation
CrossBridge Bio, a biotechnology company developing next-generation antibody-drug conjugates based on discoveries by researchers at UTHealth Houston, is taking a major step toward clinical translation after being acquired by Eli Lilly. The dual-payload antibody-drug conjugate technology was originally created by... - McGovern resident selected in Young Investigator Draft
Football fans know the feeling all too well: On draft day, April 23, the commissioner of the National Football League will walk on stage and announce a team is on the clock. As the seconds tick away, team executives make... - Cookies for Heroes
Members of the Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council’s Troop 147992 delivered 1,440 boxes of Girl Scout Cookies to frontline health care workers at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital for the Cookies for Heroes program on April 10. During their visit,... - Two UTHealth Houston physicians named Memorial Hermann top doctors
As Memorial Hermann–Texas Medical Center marked 100 years of advancing medicine, two McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston physicians took top honors as the hospital’s Doctors of the Year during a celebration at the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Louise... - Cherish Henderson paves the way as first physician in her family
When Cherish Henderson walks the stage at commencement May 12, it will mark a milestone in a journey shaped by early exposure to health care, personal experiences with illness, and a deep commitment to those who came before her. That... - New center driving breakthroughs in congenital heart disease
A new multidisciplinary center at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston is bringing together experts across medicine, science, and engineering to transform how congenital heart disease is understood and treated across a patient’s lifetime. Designed to bridge discovery and care,... - Morcos honored by Southern Neurosurgical Society
The Southern Neurosurgical Society presented Jacques Morcos, MD, professor and John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Distinguished Chair in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, with its Distinguished Practitioner Award and Lectureship at the organization’s annual meeting in March.... - Students get real-life experience at mass casualty simulation
Students from McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, alongside others from Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston and UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, as well as social work students from Texas Southern University, stepped into controlled chaos as part... - Research excellence among graduate students
Congratulations to the winners of the Graduate Student Education Committee Poster Competition at the annual Medical School Research Retreat in March. Post-candidacy MD/PhD or PhD winners are: Vicky Chuong, first place Julianna Quinn, second place Meagan Fisher, third place Pre-candidacy/MS... - Understanding language requires communication between multiple brain regions, UTHealth Houston researchers discover
Multiple regions of the brain engage in fast-moving conversations to understand language, UTHealth Houston researchers have discovered, dispelling a prior school of thought that only one region of the brain was responsible for language processing. The research, led by Nitin Tandon,... - Nominations open for Global Health Initiatives’ research faculty award
The Office of Global Health Initiatives is accepting nominations through May 6 for the Global Health Educational Innovations and Research Faculty Award. The Global Health Educational Innovations and Research Faculty Award supports and promotes a wide range of scholarly activities... - PIONEER Consortium to spotlight neuro advances April 30
Join neurosurgery and neuro-oncology experts from across the country for the inaugural PIONEER Consortium Meeting, hosted by UTHealth Houston Neurosciences, April 30 at Hotel ZaZa Museum District. Explore the latest innovations in diagnosis, treatment, and research, with a focus on... - Catch up on everything you missed from the inaugural Dean’s Dialogue
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our inaugural Dean’s Dialogue. It was energizing to connect with so many of you and to hear from our leaders about where we are as a school — and where we are... - Collaboration fuels new insights into systemic sclerosis
Investigators from the Pulmonary Center of Excellence at UTHealth Houston are highlighting new collaborative discoveries that advance understanding of systemic sclerosis, a complex autoimmune disease that drives fibrosis across multiple organs. A recent study co-led by Harry Karmouty-Quintana, PhD, associate... - Donate Life Month: Advancing education through the Willed Body Program
April is National Donate Life Month, a time to recognize the need many patients have for replacement organs. It is also a time to express gratitude to those who choose to meet that need through the process of donation. While... - Association of American Medical Colleges Council of Deans
At the March Association of American Medical Colleges Council of Deans meeting in Washington, DC, Dean LaTanya J. Love, MD, had the opportunity to hear from and connect with Jay Bhattacharya, MD, PhD, director of the National Institutes of Health.... - Governor awards grant to expand forensic psychiatry training
UTHealth Houston is among nine academic medical institutions statewide receiving new funding from Gov. Greg Abbott as part of a $5 million initiative to expand forensic psychiatry training and strengthen Texas’ mental health workforce. The grant program will provide approximately... - A ‘Texas Hammer’ Legacy: Jim and Deborah Adler invest in the next generation of healers
Known across the state as the “Texas Hammer,” Jim Adler built his career as a personal injury attorney advocating for others. Together with his wife, Deborah, that same belief in standing up for people now guides their philanthropy at UTHealth... - UTHealth Houston Cares impacts local community with health fair
Student volunteers and clinicians from UTHealth Houston came together to deliver no-cost health screenings and resources to underserved neighborhoods through the UTHealth Houston Cares Community Health Fair March 28 at the UT Physicians Multispecialty – Victory clinic. UTHealth Houston Cares... - Champions of Clinical Learning Environment: Dean Atkinson, MD; Brandi Karnes, MD; and Kawal Bir, MD
The Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School congratulates Dean Atkinson, MD; Brandi Karnes, MD; and Kawal Bir, MD, on being honored as Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. Champions are identified through the Learning Environment Surveys, which are sent... - Hands-on science inspires future generations at Brain Night
Photos by Dwight Andrews/UTHealth Houston Children and their families from the Houston community joined UTHealth Houston Neuroscience Research Center for Brain Night for Kids at The Health Museum for an evening filled with science activities to inspire the next generation... - Parchem wins Young Physician-Scientist Award
The American Society for Clinical Investigation has named Jacqueline Parchem, MD, associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, as a winner of the 2026 Young Physician-Scientist Award. “I am honored... - Internal Medicine debuts first of its kind Elder Capacity Assessment and Mistreatment Fellowship
To address a need for formal training across the country in the evaluation and treatment of elder abuse, the Department of Internal Medicine is debuting a first-of-its-kind Elder Capacity Assessment and Mistreatment Fellowship in the Joan and Alexander Stanford Division... - Students complete inaugural culinary medicine program
Fourth-year students at McGovern Medical School participated in the inaugural presentation of the Culinary Medicine program March 17 in the Nourish Kitchen at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health. “At McGovern Medical School, we developed this four-year Culinary Medicine elective... - In memoriam: Russell M. Paine
Russell M. Paine, PT, director of rehabilitation and sports medicine in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, died March 12. He was 70. Paine grew up in Lubbock, Texas, where he developed a lifelong love of sports, music, and tackling projects... - Entire McGovern Medical School Class of 2026 headed to residencies after results of Match Day revealed
Cheers and shouts of joy rang out across Webber Plaza as the Class of 2026 at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston opened their envelopes and discovered where they would be training as part of the next step in their... - Discovering new frontiers in cardiovascular diseases
Photos by Dwight Andrews/UTHealth Houston Leaders in cardiovascular medicine gathered in Houston March 5–7 for the Houston Aortic Symposium: Frontiers in Cardiovascular Diseases, bringing together an internationally recognized faculty to share the latest advances in the diagnosis and treatment of... - Texas McCombs launches MD/MBA Program for Houston and Galveston medical students
Houston and Galveston medical students eyeing opportunities in health care leadership and innovation can now pursue a new dual MD/MBA degree through the highly ranked McCombs School of Business Hildebrand MBA (external link) at The University of Texas at Austin.... - Future physicians at McGovern Medical School gear up for Match Day 2026
Shaped by experiences ranging from surviving childhood cancer to overcoming long odds and wanting to give back, each of these students followed a different path that ultimately led to the same destination: a future in medicine. On Friday, March 20,... - UTHealth Houston conference to explore mental health in athletes March 28
The Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences will host the 2026 UTHealth Houston Sports Psychiatry Conference March 28 at the TMC3 Collaborative Building. The event brings together leaders in psychiatry, sports medicine, and performance science to... - In memoriam: Henny van Dijk
Henny van Dijk, retired director of the Graphics Communications Group at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, died Saturday, Feb. 28. He was 86. Henny grew up in Holland and served as a cadet in the Royal Netherlands Air Force.... - UTHealth Houston Neurosciences hosts second annual Movement Disorders Symposium
Adult and pediatrics movement disorders specialists from UTHealth Houston Neurosciences and the Movement Disorders and Neurodegenerative Disorders Program hosted the second annual UTHealth Houston Movement Disorders Symposium on Feb. 21 at TMC Helix Park. - Finding her vision: Phan’s early match in ophthalmology keeps her home
On the morning of March 20, the graduating members of the McGovern Medical School Class of 2026 will all gather in Webber Plaza. Surrounded by their classmates, families, friends, mentors, and everyone who played a part in their medical school... - McGovern dominates at South Texas ACS Annual Meeting
McGovern Medical School and UTHealth Houston were well represented at the 2026 South Texas Chapter of the American College of Surgeons Annual Meeting on Feb. 19-21 in Houston. Faculty, residents, and students were prominently featured across leadership roles, invited lectures,... - Three UTHealth Houston faculty join Shine Academy
The University of Texas System recently recognized three outstanding UTHealth Houston faculty, including two from McGovern Medical School, for their teaching excellence and commitment to enhancing health science education by inducting them into the 2026 class of The University of... - President’s Awards for Leadership awardees celebrated
Leadership grounded in service, compassion, and integrity takes center stage each year at UTHealth Houston through the President’s Awards for Leadership, which honor individuals who consistently set the standard for ethical and effective leadership. This year’s honorees — nominated by... - Hillman honored with Early Career Achievement Award
The McGovern Medical School Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Engagement have named Paul Hillman, MD, PhD, Residency ’19, as the recipient of the 2025 Early Career Achievement Award. “It is humbling to receive this award coming from an... - Auñón-Chancellor named McGovern Distinguished Alumna
The McGovern Medical School Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Engagement have named Serena Auñón-Chancellor, MD ’01, MPH, as the 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award. Auñón-Chancellor is a clinical professor in the Aerospace Medicine program at Texas... - Health Educators Fellowship Program welcomes 2026 cohort
The Health Educators Fellowship Program welcomed its 2026 cohort with the annual Opening Retreat. The event marks the beginning of an 18-month journey for faculty committed to advancing excellence in health sciences education. The Health Educators Fellowship Program reflects a... - Bovay lecture to focus on adapting to metabolic stress on March 6
Alan R. Saltiel, PhD, distinguished professor of medicine and pharmacology and the Dr. Maryam Ahmadian Endowed Chair in Metabolic Health at the University of California San Diego, will present the 2026 Harry E. Bovay, Jr. Annual Lecture at 11 a.m.... - Samie named chair in the Department of Dermatology
LaTanya J. Love, MD, dean of McGovern Medical School and H. Wayne Hightower Distinguished Professor in the Medical Sciences, has appointed Faramarz H. Samie, MD, PhD, as chair of the Department of Dermatology, effective Sept. 1, 2026. Samie is a... - McGovern leadership to host Dean’s Dialogue March 23
Join Dean LaTanya Love, MD, and other McGovern Medical School leaders for the inaugural Dean’s Dialogue at noon, March 23, in MSB 3.001 or via Zoom for a community gathering where you’ll hear the latest updates from McGovern Medical School... - Monday named Chief Medical Officer of Specialty Care
LaTanya Love, MD, dean of McGovern Medical School and H. Wayne Hightower Distinguished Professor in the Medical Sciences, has announced that Kimberly Monday, MD, has been appointed Chief Medical Officer for Specialty Care (CMO-SC) for the McGovern Medical School Practice... - McGovern Mini Market wins Heart of Nutrition Award
Caitlin McAfee, senior program manager in the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs at McGovern Medical School and assistant director of wellbeing programs at UTHealth Houston, was awarded the Heart of Nutrition Award for her work with the American Heart... - Tiniakou, Biliciler to lead Myositis Program
To help inaugurate the first comprehensive myositis program in the state of Texas, the Department of Internal Medicine and the Department of Neurology have named Eleni Tiniakou, MD, and Suur Biliciler, MD, as co-directors for the Myositis Program in the... - Honor your legacy with complimentary estate planning
As a member of McGovern Medical School you devote your careers to patient care, education, and discovery, and a carefully designed estate plan can help protect that legacy, support retirement, and offer an opportunity to leave a lasting gift that... - Enhancing patient care at the Geriatric Trauma Symposium
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Public Affairs The Department of Emergency Medicine hosts the 2026 Geriatric Trauma Symposium Jan. 30 inside TMC3. - See who’s being honored in the 2025 STAR Awards
As the 2025 STAR Awards celebrations approach, UTHealth Houston employees can now view the full list of this year’s honorees through the STAR Awards website (external link), which highlights the faculty and staff being recognized for their milestone years of service.... - Innovations in cardiology take center stage
Breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, advanced imaging, and next-generation therapies are reshaping the future of cardiology, and UTHealth Houston is at the forefront. At the Junior League of Houston’s “Bite-Sized Medicine: How to Keep Your Heart Healthy” lunch-and-learn Feb. 12, university... - New assistant deans named for graduate medical education
LaTanya J. Love, MD, dean of McGovern Medical School and H. Wayne Hightower Distinguished Professor in the Medical Sciences, announced the appointments of Emma Ferguson, MD, and Mark T. Warner, MD, as assistant deans for Graduate Medical Education (GME) to... - In memoriam: Samantha J. Oglesby
Samantha J. Oglesby, fourth-year McGovern Medical School student, died Feb. 17 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 43. “Sam Oglesby was a dedicated fourth-year student whose fierce determination inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” said... - UTHealth Houston ranks among nation’s best in NIH funding
UTHealth Houston again ranks among the nation’s leading institutions for National Institutes of Health research funding, according to the latest annual analysis by the Blue Ridge Institute for Medical Research (external link). The rankings measure NIH funding awarded during the previous... - New free AI platform coming to campus community Feb. 20
UTHealth Houston is taking a major step forward in secure innovation. Launching Friday, Feb. 20, Qualified Health will begin delivering powerful, PHI-compliant generative AI — bringing Copilot and ChatGPT-style capabilities to students, faculty, and staff at no cost. This all-in-one,... - Texas Pediatric Society Advocacy Day
Residents from the Department of Pediatrics participate in the Texas Pediatric Society’s Pediatric Trainee Advocacy Day, Feb. 10 in Austin. The full-day experience is designed for attendees to learn how to be effective advocates for Texas children. Advocacy day features... - Champions of Clinical Learning Environment: Todd Huzar, MD, and Amalia Guardiola, MD
The Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School congratulates Todd Huzar, MD, and Amalia Guardiola, MD, on being honored as Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. Champions are identified through the Learning Environment Surveys, which are sent to students as... - McGovern Medical School research retreat scheduled for March 3
Registration is open for the annual McGovern Medical School research retreat, where faculty, graduate students, and fellows can learn more about research conducted on campus and interact with their peers on March 3. Sponsored by the Research Committee, the event... - Ayala paper garners Science magazine honors
The journal Science honored Gustavo Ayala, MD, professor and Distinguished Chair in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, as the runner up for its Scientific Breakthroughs of 2025. The 2025 Breakthrough of the Year highlights major advances across all scientific disciplines. Published... - Be prepared: Campus safety resources and tips
With thousands of students, trainees, faculty, staff, and visitors on campus each day, maintaining a safe and secure environment remains a top priority at UTHealth Houston. To advance that priority, UT Police at Houston recommends the following tips to protect... - Clinical Research Unit Open House
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Public Affairs The Department of Pediatrics hosts an open house in celebration of the opening of the new outpatient Pediatric & Neurologic Clinical Research Unit, Jan. 28. - Preventive Cardiology Forum set for Feb. 14
Physicians, nurses, dietitians, caregivers, and other health care professionals with an interest in cardiovascular disease prevention are invited to attend the 36th annual Preventive Cardiology Forum on Feb. 14. The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.,... - Kevin Dillon, Senior Executive VP and COO, shares retirement plans
I write to share that Kevin Dillon, MBA, CPA, Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of UTHealth Houston, has announced his plans to retire on June 30, 2026. After stepping down from his current role, Kevin has agreed... - Crain earns American Public Health Association research award
The American Public Health Association awarded Caroline Crain, MPH, third-year medical student, with the Public Health Education Student Award for Excellence in Research at its annual meeting. Crain also presented research at the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene’s... - McGovern Center reaches from Lebanon to Hawaii with new program
The McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics successfully launched its Medical Humanities Workforce Training Program for Physicians with its first intensive weekend event Jan. 17 at the Ensemble Theatre in Houston. The Medical Humanities Workforce Training Program is a 24-month... - Faculty needed for LCME Self-Study Groups
McGovern Medical School is seeking faculty applications for a trio of committees supporting its upcoming Liaison Committee on Medical Education accreditation process. The LCME Accreditation process certifies that a medical school is providing its students a high-quality education while preparing... - Advancing behavioral health for the next generation
In every health care university, there are leaders whose journeys, passions, and commitments shape the experiences of students and the future. The Beyond the CV series looks past the bios of the deans leading UTHealth Houston’s schools to explore their... - Second annual UTHealth Houston Movement Disorders symposium set for Feb. 21
McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston will host the second annual UTHealth Houston Movement Disorders Symposium on Saturday, Feb. 21, at the TMC3 Collaborative Building (7255 Helix Park Ave.). The UTHealth Houston Movement Disorders Symposium will train attendees to recognize... - Nominations open for Neuroscience Research Awards
The UTHealth Houston Neuroscience Research Center is accepting nominations for a pair of awards through Feb. 20. Outstanding Fourth-Year Medical Student in the Neurosciences The Outstanding Fourth-Year Medical Student in the Neurosciences Award grants $500 for excellence in neuroscience research... - University hosts UT System volunteer leaders for winter meeting
The University of Texas System’s mission to improve the health and well-being of Texans was on full display Jan. 29-30 as UTHealth Houston hosted the Chancellor’s Council Executive Committee Winter Business Meeting, offering a comprehensive look at how the institution... - Becker’s Healthcare names Alleman a 2025 CNO to know
Becker’s Healthcare recognized Kim Alleman, MBA, RN, chief nursing officer at UT Physicians, as one of the nation’s hospital and health system CNOs to know in 2025 (external link), honoring leaders who are shaping the future of patient care through... - Mayes named Distinguished Clinical Investigator
The American College of Rheumatology (external link) named Maureen D. Mayes, MD, MPH, professor of rheumatology and the Elizabeth Bidgood Chair in Rheumatology at McGovern Medical School, the recipient of its 2025 Distinguished Clinical Investigator Award. Mayes earned the award... - Uber reinstated as approved option for business travel
Following the removal of a warrant hold by the state of Texas, Uber has returned as an approved option for work-related travel at UTHealth Houston. Last week Uber Technologies was placed on a warrant hold, which made the rideshare company... - Cardiovascular Perfusion Program graduation
Photos by Dwight Andrews Congratulations to the 2025 graduating class of the Cardiovascular Perfusion Program. Graduates include Ashley Barnhill, Allen Byrd, Paulina Carles, Jacob Decker, Heath Flower, Ellie Salim, Rachel Saxton, and Madeline Smith. The Cardiovascular Perfusion Program gives graduates the knowledge to understand the physiology of a... - Class of 2029 dons white coats
McGovern Medical School officially welcomed 240 students from the Class of 2029 during its annual White Coat Ceremony on Jan. 23 at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. The ceremony opened with a welcome from Sheela Lahoti, MD, vice... - Students shine at teaching competition
The McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston Academic Medicine Student Organization and the Medical Student Research Office hosted the fourth annual Teaching Competition on Jan. 21 in MSB 3.001. For the competition, each student was given five minutes to present... - Emergency Medicine team plays critical role at the 2026 Chevron Houston Marathon
A behind-the-scenes look at how UTHealth Houston’s Emergency Medicine team helped keep runners safe and race day running smoothly. On the morning of Jan. 11, runners and spectators gathered in downtown Houston for the annual Chevron Houston Marathon (external link)... - McGovern students lead global health equity effort in Nigeria
Driven by a commitment to global health equity, McGovern Medical School students William McCarthy and Rakesh Kathiresan traveled to Ogun State, Nigeria, in the summer of 2025 to combat schistosomiasis, using innovative, low-cost diagnostic tools to reach underserved communities along... - University Web Services available to support medical school website needs
McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston has entered a new era in communications, strengthened by the recent partnership with the UTHealth Houston Office of Public Affairs and University Web Services in the Department of Marketing and Communications. With this enhanced... - Champions of Clinical Learning Environment: Kawal Bir, MD, and Elena Zamora, MD, MHA
The Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School congratulates Kawal Bir, MD, and Elena Zamora, MD, MHA, on being honored as Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. Champions are identified through the Learning Environment Surveys, which are sent to students... - Honoring Their First Patients
Video by Danny Palomba/Office of Public Affairs The McGovern Medical School Class of 2029 honors their first patients with the 2026 Cadaver Memorial. Upon completion of the Gross Anatomy course each year, first-year students show their appreciation to individuals who... - Registration open for eighth annual Houston Shock Symposium
The eighth annual Houston Shock Symposium (external link) will be hosted on March 5-7 at Hilton Americas-Houston (1600 Lamar St.). Registration (external link) for the Houston Shock Symposium is free for all attendees. The Houston Shock Symposium brings together world-renowned... - UTHealth Houston awarded more than $5 million in federal funding to realize full potential of health data
Researchers at UTHealth Houston have been awarded three grants totaling more than $5 million from the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to address one of the biggest challenges in modern health care: building enhanced data... - Class of 2029 to receive white coats Jan. 23
McGovern Medical School students from the Class of 2029 will take the next step in their medical education journeys when they participate in the annual White Coat Ceremony on Jan. 23. The White Coat Ceremony begins at 1 p.m. at... - Faces of Dementia Exhibit
The McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics has announced its newest art wall exhibit, “Faces of Dementia,” featuring the work of McGovern Medical School alum Cindy Williams-Ware, MD. This compelling collection of portraits (external link) honors individuals living with dementia and... - McGovern Mini Market food pantry now available for students
As part of UTHealth Houston’s commitment to supporting student health and well-being, McGovern Medical School has opened the McGovern Mini Market to address food insecurity, ensure access to nutritious food and essential items, and allow students to focus on their... - Nominations for President’s Awards for Leadership set to close Jan. 26
Great leadership can be seen in every corner of UTHealth Houston, and nominations are now open for the President’s Awards for Leadership to recognize those who make an extraordinary difference. Since 2006, the annual UTHealth Houston President’s Awards for Leadership... - Get to know the Champions of Clinical Learning Environment
The Office of Professionalism at McGovern Medical School is launching a new Q&A feature series highlighting the Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. The series spotlights educators who have made a lasting impression on third-year medical students during clerkship rotations... - McGovern students’ new band uses music for philanthropy
United by a shared passion for music and service, students at McGovern Medical School have formed The Devonshires, a band that blends creative expression with community impact by using live performances to support pediatric patients through music-based philanthropy. Band members... - McGovern students lead childhood development volunteer effort
Students from McGovern Medical School recently partnered with the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation (external link) and their Raising a Reader Program. The students packed 4,250 literacy bags to distribute to families at HCA hospitals across South Texas, helping newborns... - McGovern Medical School featured as standout lifestyle medicine institution by AAMC
McGovern Medical School was featured by the Association of American Medical Colleges as a standout lifestyle medicine institution in its Elevating Nutrition in Medical Education series, highlighting efforts to equip medical trainees with tools to prevent disease through healthful behaviors.... - Students honor first patients at Cadaver Memorial
Students from the Class of 2029 honored their first patients during the annual McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston Cadaver Memorial Service on Jan. 6. Upon completion of the Gross Anatomy course each year, first-year students show their appreciation to... - Chandra wins Best Abstract in Medical Education and Training
The Congress of Neurological Surgeons (external link) named Ankush Chandra, MD, PGY-6, chief resident in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, the recipient of the Best Abstract in Medical Education and Training... - Hear from Dean LaTanya J. Love, MD, as she reflects on her path and prepares for McGovern Medical School 2.0
In every health care university, there are leaders whose journeys, passions, and commitments shape the experiences of students and the future. The new Beyond the CV series looks past the bios of the deans leading UTHealth Houston’s schools to explore... - Strengthen your proposal writing with Grants 101 and 102
Faculty and staff interested in developing stronger grant-writing skills can now register for UTHealth Houston’s Grants 101 and Grants 102 programs, two proven workshops that guide participants from learning the basics of proposal writing to preparing a submission-ready grant application.... - A holiday message for McGovern Medical School
I want to personally thank our students, trainees, faculty, and staff for making this past year so meaningful and successful. Together, we advanced patient care, expanded our research enterprise, and strengthened our commitment to educating the next generation of physicians... - Finals Feast
Photos by Dwight Andrews Students from McGovern Medical School and the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry come together to host the 2025 Finals Feast, giving students a well-deserved break as they head into exams. From great food to even better... - CPRIT awards nearly $10M to UTHealth Houston cancer researchers
Seven UTHealth Houston researchers received awards totaling nearly $10 million in funding from The Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), a state legislative initiative designed to advance cancer research and prevention in Texas. The recipients oversee initiatives spanning... - Student leaders drive McGovern Medical School’s AI learning community
In fall 2025, McGovern Medical School students stepped forward as early leaders in the AI in Medical Education Demonstration series, volunteering their time, sharing how they use artificial intelligence to support their learning and scholarship, and helping build a culture... - Support is here for the McGovern community throughout the holiday season
As the end of the year approaches, the McGovern Medical School community is looking forward to festive celebrations and spending time with friends and family. However, the holiday season can also heighten emotional strain, leaving some feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or... - President visits McGovern Medical School during listening tour
President Melina R. Kibbe, MD, continued her university-wide listening tour with a dynamic, standing-room-only visit to McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston on Dec. 8, where she joined LaTanya Love, MD, dean of McGovern Medical School, for an open and... - In memoriam: Michael A. Jacobs
Michael A. Jacobs, PhD, professor and vice chair for research in the Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging, died Nov. 25, 2025. He was 64. Jacobs received his PhD in biomedical physics from the Joint Oakland University/Henry Ford Hospital program... - Happy Friendsgiving
Nearly 300 students and their friends and family celebrated the McGovern Medical School Family and Friendsgiving on Nov. 7. Hosted by the Office of Alumni Engagement, the event offered an opportunity to connect, learn about the medical student journey and... - Vásquez’s research highlights importance of pressure-sensing protein in sickle cell disease
Recent research from the lab of Valeria Vásquez, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at McGovern Medical School, shows that PIEZO1, an ion channel that helps regulate red blood cell volume, may be a key... - Groundbreaking study shows AI benefits in heart attack detection
A new study using artificial intelligence to analyze electrocardiograms, led in part by Benjamin Cooper, MD, MEd, associate professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, showed significant improvement in the detection of severe... - NIH funds Bishehsari’s precision medicine study
A study from the lab of Faraz Bishehsari, MD, PhD, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at McGovern Medical School, and director of the Gastroenterology Research Center, seeking to develop new methods to personalize treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma,... - Presenting the 2025 Fields Lecture
Photos by Dwight Andrews The Department of Neurology welcomed Bruce Ovblagele, MD, professor at the University of California, San Francisco, for the 2025 William S. Fields Lecture, on Nov. 14. Ovblagele presented on “Establishing an Ecosystem of Excellence in Experimentation... - Rodriguez earns 2025 Crow Scholarship
The Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy at McGovern Medical School has named Mya Rodriguez the 2025 recipient of the Terry J. Crow, PhD, Scholarship in Neuroscience. Rodriguez received her Master of Science degree in experimental psychology – behavioral neuroscience from Angelo... - Hergenroeder earns Pramod Dash Prize
The Institute for Rehabilitation and Research (TIRR) Foundation has named Georgene Hergenroeder, PhD, associate professor in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery at McGovern Medical School, as the recipient of the Pramod Dash Brain Injury Research Award. At the... - Space Medicine Summit brings global experts to UTHealth Houston
Bringing together astronauts, NASA physicians, commercial spaceflight leaders, and international partners from more than a dozen nations, UTHealth Houston hosted the 2025 International Space Medicine Summit Nov. 19-21, marking the first time the globally recognized meeting convened under the university’s... - UTHealth Houston’s Listening Tour with President Melina R. Kibbe, MD
McGovern Medical School students, faculty, and staff, are invited to join president Melina R. Kibbe, MD, for a special meet-and-greet town hall at McGovern Medical School as part of her university-wide listening tour. The town hall is an opportunity to... - McGovern communications focuses on school’s future-facing trajectory
McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston has entered a new era in communications, strengthened by the recent partnership with the UTHealth Houston Office of Public Affairs and University Web Services in the Department of Marketing and Communications. Through enhanced collaboration,... - Help Us Shape the Future of Our School – Complete the Engagement Survey
Recently, I was delighted to represent McGovern Medical School at the 2025 Houston Chronicle Top Workplace luncheon, where UTHealth Houston was recognized for the 11th time. This honor is only possible because of the valuable feedback you provide from the... - Mojica named Compassionate Caregiver of the Year
The Schwartz Center for Compassionate Healthcare has selected Gioconda Mojica, MD, assistant professor in the Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, for the 2025 National Compassionate Caregiver of the Year Award. “It... - Dean’s Lecture scheduled for Dec. 4
The Office of Research Affairs will welcome Charles Cox, MD, to present the 2025 Dean’s Lecture at 12:30 p.m. Dec. 4 in MSB 3.001. Cox is the George and Cynthia Mitchell Distinguished Chair in Neurosciences; the Glassell Family Distinguished Chair;... - Simply the best: Patient breathes easier with expert care
In 1982, Greg Schenck took over his friend’s small hardwood flooring business with little more than determination, a few pieces of equipment, and a goal to be the best at what he does. Over the next four decades, he built... - UT System guidance on political activities and campus use
The University of Texas System has issued updated guidance to all campuses, including UTHealth Houston, on appropriate participation in political activities and the proper use of university resources during campaign periods. The guidance reminds the university community that while state... - A Neuroscientist’s View of the Future of Psychiatry
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Joshua Gordon, MD, PhD, chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, presents the 2025 Distinguished Lecture in Neuroscience on Oct. 21 in MSB 2.006. Gordon presented... - McGovern Medical School physicians lead ultrasound training for Ukrainian doctors
A collaborative international effort led by Ajai Sambasivan, MD, associate professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, and Grant H. Chen, MD, MBA, associate professor of anesthesiology, critical care and pain medicine at the... - UTHealth Houston celebrates veterans and their legacy of service
From the clinic to the classroom and beyond, veterans at UTHealth Houston continue to serve with the same dedication and teamwork that defined their military careers. This Veterans Day, the university honors students, faculty, and staff who once wore our... - Circadian research reveals promising combination therapy in preventing liver cancer
Recent research from the lab of Kristin Eckel-Mahan, PhD, associate professor in the Institute of Molecular Medicine’s Center for Metabolic and Degenerative Diseases, reveals how a standard therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) combined with a natural molecule called nobiletin can... - Arts & Resilience to feature Dina Brodsky Nov. 14
The McGovern Medical School Arts and Resilience Program returns to welcome Dina Brodsky, a renowned miniature painter and curator, for a virtual event at noon Nov. 14 via Zoom. Brodsky is a contemporary realist miniaturist, painter, and curator. She was... - UTHealth Houston surgeons save 6-year-old from life-threatening brainstem lesion
Witten Shane Daniel of Lubbock, Texas, fell seriously ill with the flu in April. When his eyes started twitching and he felt dizzy, his mother, Casey Daniel, suspected that a prolonged fever might be the cause. But as Witten’s symptoms... - Protect yourself from the ‘fake boss scam’ targeting employees
Scammers are taking advantage of employees’ helpful nature by sending fake emails and texts that appear as if they are coming from a UTHealth Houston leader. The scenario You get an email from your boss asking if you are available.... - Rysavy shares laparoscopic surgery knowledge in Brazil
Through a global collaboration spanning from Houston to central Brazil, Mary Rysavy, MD, associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, helped surgeons at Hospital São Lucas master minimally invasive gynecologic surgery. With support from the Global... - McGovern students co-author major mRNA vaccine study in Nature
McGovern Medical School student Sage Copling helped lead a new study from researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center studying the effects of mRNA-based COVID vaccines on the survival rates of cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint therapy.... - Tsuchikama wins Dunn Collaborative Research Award
The Gulf Coast Consortia announced that Kyoji Tsuchikama, PhD, associate professor in the Texas Therapeutics Institute at the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases, is a 2025 winner of the John S. Dunn Foundation... - Resilience Through Creativity: Reflecting on the power of small acts
Faculty members of the UTHealth Houston community gathered virtually for “Resilience Through Creativity,” a reflective writing session, on Oct. 15. Resilience Through Creativity was hosted by Nahid Rianon, MD, DrPH, associate dean for Faculty Affairs and Memorial Hermann Chair at... - D-CFAR seeking pilot grant applications
The Texas Developmental Center for AIDS Research (D-CFAR) (external link) is seeking applications for small pilot grants. The three-page application is due by Nov. 3, 2025. Proposals are welcome in all areas of HIV/AIDS basic, clinical, behavioral, substance use, aging,... - Arts Beyond Sight
Photos courtesy of Bhavani Iyer, OD, FAAO, Dipl AAO The Resilience Initiative for Support and Empowerment (RISE) at UTHealth Houston, in partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, hosted “Arts beyond Sight,” on Oct. 10. Over 25 attendees enjoyed... - OEP shares tips for providing valuable feedback
The Office of Educational Programs at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston is leading an exciting initiative to strengthen how our educators provide constructive, meaningful feedback and useful narrative evaluations that support learner growth and improvement. Led by Peggy Hsieh,... - Spooky Season
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Offices at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston are getting into the spirit of Halloween with spooky decorations. - UTHealth Houston honorees recognized at Albert Schweitzer luncheon
The Albert Schweitzer Fellowship Houston Galveston (external link) hosted its annual Celebration of Service luncheon Sept. 26 at the Briar Club, drawing more than 300 attendees to recognize students, mentors, and community leaders addressing the health needs of underserved people.... - Research effectiveness workshop set for Nov. 13
The McGovern Medical School Research Committee and the Institute for Clinical Research and Learning Health Care will host the Modernizing Comparative Effectiveness Research Interdisciplinary Workshop and Symposium on Nov. 13. The workshop and symposium will be held from 12:30 to... - Assassi honored as NSF Doctor of the Year
Shervin Assassi, MD, MS, professor; Dr. Noranna B. Warner Endowed Chair in the Division of Rheumatology; and George S. Bruce, Jr. Professor in Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases, was named the “Doctor of the Year” at the annual National Scleroderma... - Luber named chair of Emergency Medicine
Following a national search, LaTanya Love, MD, dean of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, announced that Samuel D. Luber, MD, MPH, is the new chair of the Department of Emergency Medicine, effective Oct. 16. Luber has served as interim... - IMMPactful Research
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston hosts the annual IMMPact Symposium, on Oct. 14. The theme for the 2025 edition... - UTHealth Houston teaching hospital ranks fifth in Texas
Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, in partnership with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, is among the top five Best Children’s Hospitals in Texas (external link), according to the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Children’s Hospitals rankings. The primary... - Functional endoscopic sinus surgery during pregnancy gives a medical student relief
Becka Czyz suffered recurrent sinus infections from an early age, with difficulty breathing, persistent nasal drainage, and trouble sleeping. She underwent an adenoidectomy at the age of 10 but continued to struggle with head and face pain, which led to... - Pediatric Neuroscience Dinner Series set for Oct. 22
UTHealth Houston Neurosciences will host the Pediatric Neuroscience Dinner Series at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Hotel ZaZa Memorial City (9787 Katy Fwy.). The Pediatric Neuroscience Dinner Series aims to meet the educational needs of those in pediatric specialties,... - Visual emotions
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The newest exhibit on the McGovern Medical School Art Wall features the vibrant and emotionally resonant work of David Teasdale, a Texas-based artist and alumni of the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry, whose paintings... - Save the date: UTHealth Houston Fun Fest set for Dec. 4
Join friends, colleagues, and students for carnival games, a photo booth, food, music, dancing, and more at UTHealth Houston’s annual Fun Fest (external link) from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Cooley University Life Center. This university-wide... - Fútbolito and Beyond set for Oct. 13
UTHealth Houston and Rice University’s Baker Institute Center for Health Policy will host “Fútbolito and Beyond: Programs, Policies, and Community Partnerships for Promoting Physical Activity in Schools” from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Oct. 13 in the Levy Conference Room in... - McGovern Medical School community unites to explore AI in medical education
McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston launched a new initiative this fall to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can support teaching, learning, and daily work across the institution. “What has made this effort so special isn’t just the technology but... - Reimagining Communications: Elevating Value, Sustaining Excellence
As McGovern Medical School enters a new era in its mission to transform medicine, its communications services are evolving to build on a strong foundation of excellence. Beginning Dec. 1, a refreshed communications structure will be introduced to further align... - Happy Retirement, Dr. Taegtmeyer!
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Department of Internal Medicine and the McGovern Medical School community celebrated the retirement of Heinrich Taegtmeyer, MD, DPhil, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, on Sept. 24 after more than 40 years... - Study looks at postoperative delirium
A retrospective study from the Outcomes Research Consortium, the world’s oldest, largest, and most productive research group, sheds new light on the common and debilitating complication of postoperative delirium. The article, “Associations of Intraoperative Hypotension and Perioperative Blood Pressure with... - Masterful White Coats
Photos by Danny Palomba/Office of Communications The newest cohort of the Master of Science in Anesthesiology Program received their white coats in a ceremony Sept. 26 at the Cooley Center. The program introduces students to the practice of anesthesia and... - UTHealth Houston launches flu clinics for students, employees
The sniffles, coughs, and fevers of flu season may be weeks away, but UTHealth Houston is already rolling out protection. Starting this week, employees can line up for free flu shots at a series of on-site clinics designed to keep... - Dean’s Lecture set for Oct. 7
The Office of Research Affairs welcomes Miriam Goodman, PhD, to present the 2025 Dean’s Lecture on Oct. 7 in MSB 2.006. Goodman, the Mrs. George A. Winzer Professor of Cell Biology and professor of molecular and cellular physiology and mechanical... - Simmons, Mohapatra earn ASA mentoring grants
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (external link) has awarded medical students Lauren Simmons and Shweta Mohapatra an ASA Mentoring Grant Award for their project, “Beyond the Mask: A Holistic Introduction to Anesthesiology Through Vertical Mentorship and Immersive Innovation,” which will... - Wellness Fair
Photos by the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs The Office of Admissions and Student Affairs hosts a Student Wellness Fair, sponsored by the McGovern Medical School Alumni Association, Nov. 19 in the Leather Lounge and Webber Plaza. - Salutation!
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications UTHealth Houston students participated in the 27th Annual Student InterCouncil (SIC) Salutation on Thursday, Sept. 18, at the Cooley Center University Life Center. Students had the opportunity to learn and hear about the different... - Low Vision Education Day
Photos by Bhavani Iyer, OD, FAAO The Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science hosted Low Vision Education Day, Sept. 12 at the TMC Innovation Factory. Altogether, 150 attendees at the event helped with taping steps to make them safe... - Wu research on novel microglia cells published in Immunity
New research from the lab of Long-Jun Wu, PhD, professor at the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases, discovering a novel subpopulation of brain immune cells has been published in Immunity. The paper, “Rod-shaped... - First year students visit PLUS sites
First-year medical students from the Class of 2029 participated in the Professional Learning Underscored by Service (PLUS) Service-Learning Student Program in August. Through the PLUS Program, students have the opportunity to learn about their community, connect with local health organizations... - New partnership expands faculty development resources
The Office of Administration and Faculty Affairs and the Office of Educational Programs have launched a first-of-its-kind collaboration to coordinate and elevate faculty development across McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston. Resources are available to support faculty wherever they are... - Orthopedic Surgery to host pair of seminars
The Department of Orthopedic Surgery will host two seminars Oct. 2-3 at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center, 921 Gessner Road. The UTHealth Houston Pediatric Scoliosis and Spine Symposium will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct.... - From monsters to medicine: Graduate turns childhood fantasies into cancer-fighting reality
Growing up in a log cabin in the forests of upstate New York, Kendra Carmon, PhD ‘08, was captivated by black-and-white horror movies of mad scientists mixing chemicals and creating monsters in their laboratories. “I thought it would be super... - 2025 Mood Disorders Conference set for Oct. 17-18
The Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences will host its annual Mood Disorders Conference Oct. 17-18 at the TMC Innovation Institute, 2450 Holcombe Blvd. The theme for the 2025 edition of the conference is “Managing Treatment-Resistant... - NIH grant funds Houston Nutrition Obesity Research Center
The National Institutes of Health awarded a five-year, $5.9 million P30 grant to a collaborative team of investigators, including Kristin Eckel-Mahan, PhD, associate professor in the Center for Metabolic and Degenerative Diseases, to establish the Houston Nutrition Obesity Research Center... - DOD awards Hernandez-Tejada $2.3 million grant for pain and PTSD study
The U.S. Department of Defense awarded a four-year, $2.3 million Clinical Trial Award – Research Level 2 grant to Melba Hernandez-Tejada, PhD, DHA, associate professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, to study the... - Study finds diabetes program improves depression symptoms in Mexican Americans
MinJae Lee, PhD, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, and a team of researchers from UTHealth Houston School of Public Health have found that Salud y Vida, a community clinical diabetes program in the Rio Grande Valley, was linked... - Three McGovern faculty receive Brain Aneurysm Foundation grants
The Brain Aneurysm Foundation named John Hagan, PhD; Peeyush Thankamani Pandit, PhD; and Devin McBride, PhD; as recipients of its 2025 research grants. The Brain Aneurysm Foundation (external link) is the leading advocacy organization supporting education, research, and policy to... - Research that’s IMMportant
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases hosts the IMM Research Retreat, Sept. 4 in the Beth Robertson Auditorium at the IMM - Dog Days of Summer
After a summer of living their best lives swimming in the pool, soaking up the sun, and enjoying a good old-fashioned hot dog part, Scout, Jem, and Birdie are recharged, refreshed, and excited to be back in the office. - A message from entering Dean LaTanya Love
It is with profound gratitude and great excitement that I step into the role of Dean of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston—a special place that has shaped me as a physician, educator, and leader, and continues to inspire me... - Hwang named director, Division of General Internal Medicine
The Department of Internal Medicine named Kevin Hwang, MD, MPH, professor, as the new director of the Division of General Internal Medicine, effective Sept. 1, 2025. Hwang succeeds Philip Johnson, MD, professor of internal medicine, The Carolyn and William T.... - Packing Lunches
Photos courtesy of the Department of Pediatrics The Department of Pediatrics Administrative Team recently organized a day of service and fun packing lunches at Kids’ Meals, Inc., a local nonprofit that delivers lunches to preschool-aged children across the city. This... - Excellent Research
Photo by Shyam Tailor Congratulations to Kenia Velasquez, PsyD, and Abdul Haseeb, the winners of the poster session at the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences’ Annual Research Day. Attendees of the research day had the... - Hands-On Health Care
Photos courtesy of UTHealth Houston Incoming high school juniors and seniors from Fort Bend and Lamar Consolidated ISD were invited to Hands-On Health Care, a free interactive health care event. As the name suggests, the 54 students in attendance got... - How UTHealth Houston helped young boy go from grief to resilience and healing
Daron Brim, 10, was enjoying a summer day by the pool when his mother, Cherice Thomas, smiled, waved, and slid down the water slide, never to resurface. As his mother remained underwater, struggling to get to the surface, Daron screamed,... - Post-Stroke Care Conference set for Oct. 3-4
UTHealth Houston Neurosciences will host the Stroke Transitions of Care and Post-Stroke Care Conference, Oct. 3-4 at Hotel ZaZa Museum District (5701 Main St.). The conference aims to bring together leaders in stroke care and research, patients, caregivers, and community... - In Memoriam: George Williams, MD
George W. Williams, II, MD, professor in the Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, died Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025. He was 45. A beloved critical care anesthesiologist and a nationally recognized leader in anesthesiology, Williams served as the... - Akkanti named assistant dean, Clinical Education
LaTanya Love, MD, dean of Education, has named Bindu Akkanti, MD, as assistant dean for Clinical Education, effective September 1, 2025. Akkanti, the Graham Endowed Professor in Pulmonary Medicine and professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, is a nationally... - Routt earns WOA Lifetime Achievement Award
The Western Orthopaedic Association honored Milton “Chip” Routt, MD, professor and Andrew R. Burgess, MD, Endowed Chair in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, with the organization’s 2025 Blair C. Filler, MD, Lifetime Achievement Award. The Western Orthopaedic Association (external link)... - 2025 Champions of Clinical Learning Environment
Vineeth John, MD, director of the Learning Environment, and Abbey Bachmann, MEd, PhD, assistant professor in the Office of Professionalism, announced 27 faculty members recognized as the 2025 Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment at McGovern Medical School. The Office of... - UTHealth Houston leadership updates
As UTHealth Houston enters a new academic year, we are also beginning a new era of university executive leadership set to strengthen our mission across education, research, and clinical care. These changes mark a pivotal moment in the institution’s continued... - Collaborative research brings bench findings to patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
In the midst of a pandemic, when the world was focused on survival and infection prevention, a cross-section of collaborative clinical and basic science McGovern investigators embarked upon a multisite clinical trial to help the sickest COVID-19 patients — those... - Citardi recognized with ARS Golden Head Mirror Award
Martin J. Citardi, MD, professor and chair of the Department of Otorhinolaryngology — Head & Neck Surgery, and vice dean for clinical technology at McGovern Medical School has been honored with the American Rhinologic Society’s (external link) prestigious Golden Head... - Reach Out and Read
Photos courtesy of UTHealth Houston A child’s book can launch a lifetime of learning. Thanks to a generous $100,000 gift CenterPoint Energy is helping expand the Children’s Learning Institutes’ Reach Out and Read Program to bring early literacy resources to... - What’d You Find?
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications First-year students from the McGovern Medical School Class of 2029 participate in the annual scavenger hunt as part of the orientation festivities during their first week on campus. - Specialized brain aneurysm surgery has patient flying aerobatics
Mijali Munoz Proestakis, 56, is a self-admitted bit of a daredevil who loves aerobatic flying, jet surfing, mountain biking, and free diving, among other adventure sports. But he wasn’t taking any chances after he suffered a stroke out of the... - Hwang earns Jess Hay Fellowship
The University of Texas System has named Sseu-Pei Hwang, PhD candidate and graduate research assistant in the lab of Catherine Denicourt, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, as a recipient of the Jess Hay Chancellor’s... - Space medicine team reaches for the stars to cure diseases
At first glance, the words “space medicine” may bring to mind images of astronauts floating in zero gravity and managing emergencies aboard distant spacecraft. But for Bentley Bobrow, MD, UTHealth Houston’s inaugural vice president for health care innovation, and Kris... - Nixon Lectureship
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Department of Family and Community Medicine welcomes Richelle J. Koopman, MD, professor and chair in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of Missouri to present the 2025 Sam &... - Getting Online
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The McGovern Medical School Class of 2029 receives their laptops as part of the computer check in process before classes begin. - Happy Retirement, Dr. Marshak!
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy celebrates the retirement of David Marshak, MD, after more than 40 years of service at McGovern Medical School. Marshak joined the Medical School as an assistant professor in... - Lahoti named vice dean, Admissions and Student Affairs
Dean of Education LaTanya Love, MD, announced the appointment of Sheela Lahoti, MD, as vice dean for Admissions and Student Affairs at McGovern Medical School, effective Aug. 1, 2025, after successfully serving in the interim capacity. “I am confident Dr.... - Meet the Newest Faces of the Class of 2029
The 2025-26 school year is underway at McGovern Medical School and the Class of 2029 officially began their medical school journeys on Aug. 4. The McGovern Medical School Class of 2029 is made up of 240 students from 14 states,... - Vasquez to lead NIH study section
Valeria Vasquez, PhD, associate professor of biochemistry and molecular biology, recently was appointed chair of the Biochemistry and Biophysics of Membranes Study Section (external link), Biological Chemistry and Macromolecular Biophysics Integrated Review Group, Center for Scientific Review. Vasquez was appointed... - Dahr research explores role of medications in DME risk
A recent study led by Sam Dahr, MD, professor and Mary Farish Johnston Distinguished Chair in Ophthalmology, and Texas A&M medical student Jawad Muayad, examined how commonly prescribed systemic medications may influence the risk of developing diabetic macular edema (DME).... - State of the School
Keep an eye out in your email inbox for a special message from executive dean John Hancock. Alongside leadership from McGovern Medical School and UTHealth Houston, Dean Hancock will deliver a State of the School video message focusing on the... - Ortho Research
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Department of Orthopedic Research hosts its annual Research Day, June 20 at the Fayez S. and Susan K. Sarofim Research Building. Keynote speaker for the event is Robert V. O’Toole, MD, professor of... - Learning to Listen
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications First-year McGovern Medical School students in the Class of 2029 enjoy the first lecture of their medical school journey with the Art of Listening on the first day of classes, Aug. 4. - Run in style at the UTHealth Houston Half Marathon & 10K
Lace up, sign up, and gear up — registration is now open for the 2025 UTHealth Houston Half Marathon & 10K, set for Oct. 26 in downtown Houston. This year, joining Team UTHealth Houston doesn’t mean just crossing the finish... - Kaul named chief of Otology
The Department of Otorhinolaryngology — Head & Neck Surgery has appointed Vivian Kaul, MD, assistant professor and fellowship-trained neurologist, as chief of the Division of Otology. In her role as division chief, Kaul will lead the development and growth of... - In memoriam: James Arens, MD
James Arens, MD, former chair of the Department of Anesthesiology, died July 27, 2025, in Brenham, Texas. He was 91. He graduated from medical school at Creighton University and completed a rotating internship at Tripler Army Hospital in Honolulu, Hawaii.... - Educational Awards
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Congratulations to the winners of the University Classified Staff Council Educational Awards. The UCSC celebrated its award winners at a ceremony, June 26. - A New Family
Photo by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Trainees from the Department of Family and Community Medicine pose for a fun photo during their headshot day at McGovern Medical School. - New Frontiers
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Department of Otorhinolaryngology — Head & Neck Surgery hosts the annual ORL Frontiers conference. - Welcome, Class of 2029
Photo by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Students from the McGovern Medical School Class of 2029 pose for a group photo as part of orientation week. - Pediatrics’ Division of Cardiology leader named
The Children’s Heart Institute (external link) at Children’s Memorial Hermann and McGovern Medical School Department of Pediatrics have named Holly Bauser-Heaton, MD, PhD, the new chief, Pediatric Cardiology and executive co-director of CHI. “Dr. Bauser-Heaton is a remarkably gifted physician... - First Person: AI MedTrailblazers Education Platform
First Person is an occasional series, providing firsthand accounts of outreach programs involving the McGovern Medical School community. This issue features McGovern Medical School students and AI MedTrailblazers Co-Founders, Pranav Mehta, Emily Zhou, and Matthew Ramsey. Revolutionizing Medical Training: How... - Ophthalmology to host Low Vision Education Day
The Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science will host Low Vision Education Day, Friday, Sept. 12 in the UTHealth Houston Dan Arnold Center for Vision Rehabilitation in the TMC Innovation Center (2450 Holcombe Blvd.). The half-day event creates a... - Long-term stroke survivors avoid second occurrence
Sergeant Danny L. Beckworth of the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office had completed a two-day, 148-mile cycling event and a half marathon before deciding to learn jujitsu at age 55. Former attorney Frank Bennett “Ben” Harvie Jr. set an age... - Shift Complete
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Trainees for the Department of Anesthesiology and the Department of Orthopedic Surgery celebrate graduation from their respective programs. - Withers Lecture
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications The Department of Family and Community medicine hosts Gerardo Moreno, MD, MSHS, to present the 2025 Henry W. Withers Lectureship in Family Medicine, July 2. - Honoring Caregivers
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Department of Neurology faculty receive pins from the Honor Your Caregiver program. The Honor Your Caregiver program provides an avenue for patients to acknowledge a wonderful caregiver — a nurse, physician, dentist, or multitude... - Koopman to present Nixon Lecture Aug. 6
The Department of Family and Community Medicine hosts the Sam & Elizabeth Nixon Lectureship in Family Medicine, Aug. 6 in MSB 2.135 and via Zoom. Keynote speaker for the 2025 Nixon Lecture is Richelle J. Koopman, MD, professor and chair... - UTHealth Houston brings relief to mother living with rare neurological disorder
For nearly four years, 29-year-old Kiara Bess battled strange, uncontrollable movements that slowly began to take over her body. The aspiring nurse and mother of two was able to manage her symptoms for a time, but in 2023, they became... - Neerukonda elected to NBME Advisory Committee
The American Medical Association Board of Trustees has selected third-year McGovern Medical School student Sanjay Neerukonda, as the medical student representative of the National Board of Medical Examiners Advisory Committee (external link). “Serving as the medical student member on the... - Class of 2029 ready for Henry Strobel Retreat
McGovern Medical School officially welcomes the Class of 2029 with the 49th Annual Henry Strobel Retreat on Friday, Aug. 1 at Camp Cho-Yeh in Livingston, Texas. The Henry Strobel Retreat is a chance for incoming McGovern Medical School students to... - In memoriam: Roger James Bulger, MD
Roger James Bulger, MD, former president of UTHealth Houston, died June 13 at the age of 91. A nationally respected physician and health policy leader, Bulger served as second president of the institution from 1978 to 1988, guiding the university... - Dean’s Research Awards
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Congratulations to the 2025 winners of the McGovern Medical School Dean’s Research Awards presented by the Graduate Student Education Committee. 2025 winners are: Nicolas Moreno – Molecular and Translational Biology Meredith McCarty – Neuroscience... - Behind The Numbers: Class of 2029
Graphics by Omar Aguado/Office of Communication As the upcoming school year draws closer, take a look at some of the demographics that make up the entering Class of 2029. - Cheers to 100 Years
Photos by Will Guinn, Memorial Hermann Hospital This July, UTHealth Houston joined Memorial Hermann-TMC, one of our primary teaching hospitals, in celebrating 100 years of excellence in patient care since they opened their doors to treat the first patients in... - Patients honor caregivers with gifts
The relationship between a patient and their physician is built on trust, compassion, and vulnerability. It’s a bond formed during life’s most uncertain moments, when the healing presence of a caregiver becomes a source of hope and reassurance. To thank... - Call for nominations: Warren Alpert Distinguished Scholar Award
The UTHealth Houston Neuroscience Research Center (external link) is accepting applications for potential submission for the Warren Alpert Distinguished Scholar Awards in the Neurosciences (external link). The Warren Alpert Distinguished Scholars program will support individual scientists of exceptional creativity who have... - Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Laura Moore, MD, FACS
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education. This month’s feature is Laura Moore, MD, FACS, professor in... - Initial CENTURY Trial results published in European Heart Journal
A culmination of 15 years of research led by K. Lance Gould, MD, professor of cardiology, The Martin Bucksbaum Distinguished University Chair, and executive director of the UTHealth Houston Weatherhead PET Imaging Center, has resulted in the publication of the... - UT System Regents name Melina R. Kibbe, MD, sole finalist for UTHealth Houston presidency
The University of Texas System Board of Regents has named Melina R. Kibbe, MD, as the sole finalist for the presidency UTHealth Houston. Kibbe currently serves as chief health affairs officer at UVA Health and dean of the University of... - Mask Fitting
Photo by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Incoming residents in the Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, get fitted for their new N-95 particulate respirators and surgical masks. - Health Educators Graduation
Photos by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications Congratulations to the 2025 graduating cohort of the Health Educators Fellowship Program. The HEFP is designed to expand the teaching skills of participating faculty and enhance the educational mission of UTHealth Houston. - How to Operate
Photo by Dwight Andrews/Office of Communications From AI ROI to strategy execution, Chief Operating Officers and Chief Strategy Officers from across the UT System met at McGovern Medical School, June 26. The groups set to tackle cost, capacity, and innovation,... - Employee support resources available for recent Central Texas flooding
The emotional stress from the devastation and heartbreak of the flooding in Central Texas is far-reaching, with many deeply affected here in Houston. In such distressing times, knowing where to get support can be crucial. UTHealth Houston provides resources to... - Trio aides Spain after massive floods
Cesar Soutullo, MD, PhD, John S. Dunn Professor and Vice Chair and Chief of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry; Leslie Taylor, PhD, associate professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; and Sarly Butte, LPC, director... - Gentry earns infectious disease fellowship
The Infectious Diseases Society of America recognized Clare Gentry, MD, associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, with a Fellowship in IDSA. Fellowship in IDSA is one of the highest honors in infectious diseases. It recognizes individuals whose careers... - Study: Stroke risk tied to pregnancy complications
Women who experienced any of five common pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, faced a higher risk of stroke even decades after giving birth, according to a new study by researchers at UTHealth Houston. The findings, led by Casey... - PECP graduates ninth cohort
The Physician Educator Certificate Program celebrated the graduation of its ninth cohort in May. This milestone included 75 residents and fellows from over 41 programs. The Physicians Educator Certificate Program is a collaborative effort between McGovern Medical School and Houston... - Furr-Stimming named assistant dean for Admissions and Student Affairs
After an internal search, the Office of Admissions and Student Affairs has named Erin Furr-Stimming, MD, professor in the Department of Neurology and Memorial Hermann Endowed Chair, as assistant dean for Admissions and Student Affairs, effective June 1, 2025. Furr-Stimming... - An lab discovers novel nasal treatment for influenza
New data from researchers at the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine exploring novel therapeutic approaches to treating Influenza A viruses has been published in Nature Communications. The paper (external link), titled “An intranasally administered IgM protects against antigenically distinct subtypes... - Woolverton to present Carmel Dyer, MD Lecture Series
The UTHealth Houston Institute on Aging (external link) welcomes Cindy Woolverton, PhD, assistant professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavior Sciences, to present the next installment if the Carmel Dyer, MD Lecture Series, July 21.... - New autism support, internship program creates meaningful impact
To support young adults with autism transitioning into adulthood and the workforce, particularly those within Latino communities, UTHealth Houston recently implemented the bilingual Launching! to Adulthood program. The first 12 weeks of the program involve both in-person and virtual therapy... - Chandra claims top honors at AANS meeting
Ankush Chandra, MD, fifth-year resident in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, earned top honors at the 2025 American Association of Neurological Surgeons (external link) Annual Scientific Meeting, one of the largest neurosurgical gatherings in the world with over... - Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award: Faith Atai, MD
Faith Atai, MD, associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, is the 2025 recipient of the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award, presented by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation (external link). The Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award annually... - Lee’s lab discovers nanocarrier to fight GBM
A recent study from researchers at McGovern Medical School discovered a novel engineered exosome model to help deliver therapeutic treatments to glioblastoma tumors, which could potentially enhance treatments for a notoriously fatal cancer. Findings from the study, led by Tae... - Moreno to present Withers Lecture July 2
Gerardo Moreno, MD, MSHS, professor (external link) and chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles, will present the Department of Family and Community Medicine’s 2025 Henry W. Withers Lectureship in Family... - Herbert L. and Margaret W. DuPont Master Clinical Teaching Award: Karthik Bhandari, MD
Karthik Bhandari, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, is the winner of the 2025 Herbert L. and Margaret W. DuPont Master Clinical Teaching Award. Established in 2001 and made possible by a gift from the DuPonts, the... - Some storms leave emotional damage: How to cope after a traumatic weather disaster
Hurricane Beryl left a historical path of destruction in its wake, killing 64 people, leaving nearly 3 million without power, and causing billions of dollars in infrastructure damage. The visible aftermath of a hurricane or a traumatic weather event is... - Terrell named Outstanding Student in Gross Anatomy
The Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy has named Zachary Terrell, MS4, as the winner of the Outstanding Student in Gross Anatomy 2025 Award. Terrell was honored for his excellence performance in the Gross Anatomy course as well as his generous... - Study uncovers RNA changes in Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers at McGovern Medical School have gained insights about what happens inside brain cells during Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a devastating neurodegenerative disorder. Their findings, published in the journal Nature Communications on June 6, could help scientists better understand and eventually... - Hestla wins John P. McGovern Award
Gregory Hestla, MD, assistant professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, is the 2025 recipient of the John P. McGovern Award as the exceptional clinical teacher. The John P. McGovern Award is given annually... - Link between heart attack severity and circadian rhythm unveiled
The molecular mechanism behind why heart attacks can vary in severity depending on the time of day has been uncovered by researchers at UTHealth Houston, potentially paving the way for innovative treatments that align with the natural circadian rhythm. The... - Torres named NBA Outstanding Student
The Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy has named Jose Torres, MS4, as the winner of the Outstanding Student in Neuroscience 2025 Award. Torres is the top scholar in the neuroscience course and said he is thrilled to have matched in... - University researchers receive more than $5 million from CPRIT
Three UTHealth Houston researchers, including two from McGovern Medical School, received more than $5 million in funding from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) (external link), furthering the state’s mission to prevent and treat cancer through innovative... - Benjy F. Brooks, MD, Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award: Marina Petsalis, MD
Marina Petsalis, MD, chief resident in the Department of Surgery, is the 2025 winner of the Benjy F. Brooks, MD, Outstanding Clinical Faculty Award. Established in 1991 by the Alumni Association, the Benjy Brooks Award is presented by the McGovern... - Flores named Mid-Career Clinician Educator of the Year
The American Geriatrics Society (external link) has honored Renee Flores, MD, associate professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, with its 2025 Outstanding Mid-Career Clinician Educator of the Year Award. “The American Geriatrics society is honored to recognize Renee Flores,... - ORL Frontiers set June 20
The Department of Otorhinolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery will host its annual ORL Frontiers conference June 20 at the TMC3 Collaborative Building (7255 Helix Park Ave.). The full-day continuing medical education meeting highlights cutting-edge research and emerging technology in... - In memoriam: Baxter Montgomery, MD
Baxter Montgomery, MD, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, died May 24, 2025. Montgomery was a world-renowned cardiologist, an active teacher at UTHealth Houston, where he held an adjunct appointment for over two decades and an attending... - John Freeman Faculty Teaching Award – Han Zhang, MD
Han Zhang, MD, professor in the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy is the 2025 recipient of the John H. Freeman Award for Faculty Teaching. Chosen by the senior class, this is the eighth time Zhang has received the award, which... - McGovern shines at Health Science Education conference
McGovern Medical School was well-represented at the 2025 Innovations in Health Science Education 21st Annual Conference for The University of Texas System Kenneth I. Shine, MD, Academy of Health Science Education, with 40 attendees and a multitude of grant and... - Novel nanoscintillator concept leads to improved outcomes in pancreatic cancer
Research from the lab of Sunil Krishnan, MD, professor and John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Distinguished Chair in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, seeking to push the limits of light-activated therapies used to kill cancer cells has... - Student author pens book for pediatric dermatology patients
Inspired by her sister’s journey with skin conditions, a rising fourth-year student at McGovern Medical School has combined her passion for dermatology and storytelling to create a children’s book designed to help young patients embrace and celebrate their skin. “My... - Pediatrics to host resident, fellow research symposia
The Department of Pediatrics will host the 3rd Annual Pediatric Research Symposium and the 14th Annual Pediatric Fellow Research Symposium May 21 and May 22, respectively. The 3rd Annual Pediatric Resident Research Symposium is a free event held from 12:30-4:30... - Common genetic variants linked to drug-resistant epilepsy
Certain common genetic changes might make some people with focal epilepsy less responsive to seizure medications, according to a new global study led by researchers from UCL in London and UTHealth Houston. Focal epilepsy is a condition where seizures start... - 2025 Dean’s Teaching Excellence Awards
Congratulations to the 2025 winners of the Dean’s Teaching Excellence Awards. May is designated as teaching excellence month for McGovern Medical School. New to the awards in 2025 is a shifted focus toward junior faculty. Senior faculty who have been... - Human placenta stress response to maternal COVID-19 infection reinforces maternal-fetal barrier
A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology by researchers at UTHealth Houston, Baylor College of Medicine and collaborating institutions reveals that maternal COVID-19 infection triggers distinct stress responses in the placenta, including upregulation of preeclampsia-associated genes. The stress... - Seeing 20/20 becomes possible again for patient
More than a decade after undergoing radial keratotomy surgery in 1990 to correct her myopia, or nearsightedness, Shubhra Ghosh noticed she was beginning to strain her eyes to see. Radial keratotomy, a precursor to Lasik surgery, involved making multiple cuts... - Applications open for 2025 Pruessner Scholarship
The Harris County Academy of Family Physicians (external link) is accepting applications for the Harold T. Pruessner, MD, Medical Student Scholarship. The deadline to apply is May 33. Applicants must be third-year medical students in good standing and have completed... - Research identifies novel gene regulator of microglial inflammation
Recent research by Gab Seok Kim, PhD, and Sean P. Marrelli, PhD, on interferon proteins and how they spread neuroinflammation in the brain has been published in Nature Communications. Kim is an assistant professor in the Department of Neurology and... - From hardship to healing: Daniel Martinez’s journey
For Daniel Martinez, the road to medicine didn’t begin in a classroom. It started in the low-income neighborhoods of Los Angeles and Lewisville, Texas, in the emergency rooms where his mother worked nights cleaning up after patients, and in physicians’... - Research employs AI to diagnose unsolved genetic syndromes
Using a deep learning tool, new research from the Division of Medical Genetics illuminates the importance of in-depth genetic testing, especially for hard-to-diagnose patients. “Non-canonical splice variants in thoracic aortic dissection cases and Marfan syndrome with negative genetic testing (external... - Carlin increases McGovern Center’s visibility with national award
Nathan Carlin, PhD, director of the John P. McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics, has been unanimously selected as the winner of the 2025 Health Humanities Visionary Award. He was presented the award from the Health Humanities Consortium (external link)... - Fallon to present Ertan Lectureship
The Department of Internal Medicine welcomes Michael Fallon, MD, chair in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, for the 10th Annual Ertan Lectureship. Fallon will present on “Complications of Portal Hypertension 2025” beginning... - Hypoxia surviving proteins could be possible lung disease therapy
Scientists at UTHealth Houston are investigating how the body naturally adapts to hypoxia – an insufficient oxygen supply to the body or specific organs – to develop new treatments for life-threatening heart and lung diseases. With a seven-year, $6.58 million... - Celebrate science with a STEM-tastic Adventure
Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the National Science Foundation with a hands-on, high-energy STEM experience, May 10 at the Children’s Museum Houston (external link) (1500 Binz St.). The event is a collaboration between the Children’s Learning Institute at UTHealth Houston,... - Faculty participate in Resilience Through Creativity exercise
A new wellness initiative from the Office of Faculty Affairs and Development (external link) offers UTHealth Houston faculty the opportunity to explore creative writing in an effort to reduce faculty burnout. “The Office of Faculty Affairs is focused on well-being... - ACGME accredits Allergy and Immunology Fellowship
The Department of Internal Medicine has received accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME (external link)) for its Allergy and Immunology Fellowship – only the second such fellowship program in Houston. The fellowship received ACGME accreditation last... - In Memoriam: Paul H. Dahm, MD, MS
Paul H. Dahm, MD, MS, died April 14, after a battle with cancer. He was 49. Working as an associate professor of pediatric critical care medicine at McGovern Medical School, Dahm also served as the medical director of the Pediatric... - Research reveals ‘big picture’ of perioperative organ injury
After nearly four years researching the surgical outcomes of more than 28 million patients, McGovern Medical School investigators are illuminating the global impact of perioperative organ injury. Findings from “Impact of Peri-operative Organ Injury on Morbidity and Mortality in 28... - Research on gut microbiota published in Nature Communications
An imbalance in ligands, which are molecules produced by the body and the gut microbiota, can affect a key receptor protein that plays a role in brain inflammation after stroke, according to researchers at UTHealth Houston, who recently published their... - New perioperative institute launches to make surgery safer
UTHealth Houston announced the establishment of the Institute of Perioperative Medicine, which will span different schools, including McGovern Medical School and McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics at UTHealth Houston. The institute is a research initiative dedicated to improving surgical outcomes... - Neurology project takes AHA/ASA Stroke Data Challenge prize
A paper from the team of Amanda Jagolino-Cole, MD, associate professor; Sushanth Aroor, MD, assistant professor; Anjail Sharrief, MD, MPH, professor; and Sunil Sheth, MD, associate professor in the Department of Neurology, won the 3rd Place Prize in the American... - Psychiatry hosts Eating Disorders Update May 3
The Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, will host the UTHealth Houston Center for Eating Disorders Update Conference: Bridging the Gap, May 3 at TMC3 Helix Park (1885 Old Spanish Trail). The conference will showcase presentations... - Institute of Perioperative Medicine to host inaugural retreat
The Institute of Perioperative Medicine will host its inaugural retreat from 8:30 a.m. until 8 p.m., April 18 at the TMC3 Collaborative Building (7255 Helix Park Ave.). The inaugural retreat is hosted by Institute of Perioperative Medicine co-directors Cynthia Ju,... - Psychiatry offers two new fellowships
Helping to prepare the clinical workforce for specialized psychiatric expertise, the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences welcomes two new fellowships. The UTHealth Houston Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship and Interventional Psychiatry Fellowship are currently accepting applications. The... - Brain channels ‘stopped in time’ reveal chemical flow that enables learning, thinking
In an effort to understand how brain cells exchange chemical messages, scientists say they have successfully used a highly specialized microscope to capture more precise details of how one of the most common signaling molecules, glutamate, opens a channel and... - In Memoriam: Diana A. Racusin, MD
Diana A. Racusin, MD, holder of the Berel Held, MD, Professorship in the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, died Saturday, March 29, 2025, following a yearslong battle with cancer. She was 41. Joining the McGovern Medical School faculty... - Population Health Symposium set for April 10
The Office of Population Health invites UTHealth Houston faculty, staff, and residents to join the inaugural Population Health Symposium from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., April 10 at the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine. Registration for the event is... - Stem cell trial for early Alzheimer’s disease begins at UTHealth Houston
A stem cell therapy trial aimed at reducing neuroinflammation in patients with presymptomatic Alzheimer’s disease is underway at UTHealth Houston. In Alzheimer’s disease, deposits of beta-amyloid and tau lead to the buildup of plaques and tangles in the brain, which... - Gage to present Smythe Lecture April 8
McGovern Medical School welcomes Fred “Rusty” Gage, PhD, Vi and John Adler Chair for Research on Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies (external link), as the keynote speaker for the 2025 Cheves Smythe Distinguished Lecture, on... - QI project increases syphilis screenings, JAMA
A recent viewpoint article stressing the importance of point-of-care syphilis testing to combat the troubling rates of congenital syphilis among pregnant patients in Texas has been published in JAMA (external link). Research was led by Irene Stafford, MD, associate professor... - New clinical trial tests gene therapy vector for overactive bladder in SCI patients
A modified herpes virus that targets spinal cord nerve cells to treat neurogenic bladder in people with spinal cord injury is underway in a first-in-human clinical trial (external link) by UTHealth Houston at TIRR Memorial Hermann. Neurogenic bladder, also called... - Women Faculty Forum – Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Susanna Spence, MD
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education. This month’s feature is Susanna Spence, MD, professor in the... - Research Committee presents Spatial Omics workshop
The Medical School Research Committee will host Spatial Omics: The New Era for Precision Medicine, a collaborative workshop to be held from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., April 2 in MSB 2.135. Understanding the spatial context of the changes and... - Chandra earns resident paper award
The Southern Neurosurgical Society awarded Ankush Chandra, MD, PGY-5, in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, with the Augustus McCravey Resident Paper Award. The August McCravey Resident Paper Award is given in honor of Augustus McCravey, MD, and was... - Cagle, Anderson named 2024 Distinguished Alumni
McGovern Medical School has named Leslie Cagle, MD ’83; and Larry Anderson, MD, PhD ’00, as its 2024 Distinguished Alumnus Award recipients. The Distinguished Alumnus Award honors alumni of McGovern Medical School who have made significant contributions in the areas... - Trio of alums receive Early Career Achievement Awards
The Early Career Achievement Award honors alumni (external link) of McGovern Medical School who have exhibited excellence and significant career contributions in the areas of medical science and education from the completion of their residency or fellowship through their first... - Research reveals new approach to measure ophthalmic artery blood flow
McGovern Medical School research detailing a novel non-invasive measurement of blood flow in the ophthalmic artery recently was published in Cell Reports Method. Led by Iraida Sharina, PhD, associate professor of Internal Medicine, Cardiology, the paper, “Non-invasive Real-time Pulsed Doppler... - McGovern Medical School Class of 2025 students are ready for Match Day
From personal tragedy to volunteer work to a classmate’s enlightening speech, they were inspired by different events onto a common pathway that will lead to a career in medicine. On Friday, March 21, these students are among more than 200... - Scientific Retreat scheduled for April 22
The McGovern Medical School Department of Pediatrics and the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry Center for Craniofacial Research will host the 2025 Scientific Retreat, April 22 at the Cooley Center. The 2025 Scientific Retreat allows trainees of all disciplines to... - Hot Topics in Aging set for March 25
The UTHealth Houston Institute on Aging hosts the 9th Annual Hot Topics in Aging Conference, March 25, in the Gallery at the Deluxe Theater (3303 Lyons Avenue, Houston, Texas, 77020). The UTHealth Houston Institute on Aging, in collaboration with the... - Celebrate Match Day with Class of 2025 fundraiser
As the Class of 2025 prepares to take the next step in their medical careers on Match Day, March 21, the McGovern Medical School community has an exciting opportunity to give back (external link) in celebration of this special day.... - McGovern welcomes Dervay as commencement speaker
The Graduating Class of 2025 will receive their medical degrees at the McGovern Medical School Commencement Ceremony, beginning at 9 a.m., May 13 at NRG Arena (1 NRG Pkwy.). The event also will be live streamed for friends and family... - Research reveals role of skin in antimicrobial-resistant infection spread
Understanding how skin harbors and spreads antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in nursing home settings is the latest research published in Nature from the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics faculty. Diana Proctor, PhD, assistant professor, Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, is... - Biliciler adds lifestyle medicine to treatment of neuromuscular diseases
Suur Biliciler, MD, recalled a clinic visit with a patient and family to explain the importance of adding protein to meals to help treat their loved one’s neuromuscular disease. The family said they could not do it since they tried... - Research on how our brains remember, store new words published in Nature Communications
Recent research on how the brain encodes and stores different words, led by Oscar Woolnough, PhD, assistant professor in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, has been published in Nature Communications. The paper, “Memorability of novel words correlates with... - Bovay Lecture features Barzilai March 21
Nir Barzilai, MD, director of the Institute for Aging Research at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine (external link), will present the 2025 Harry E. Bovay, Jr. Annual Lecture, at 11 a.m. March 21 in the Beth Robertson Auditorium at... - McGovern improves national ranking in NIH funding
McGovern Medical School has increased its National of Institutes of Health funding, reaching the top 35 percent of U.S. medical schools. With a total of $122,058,619 in NIH funding in 2024, McGovern is listed as 51st among all U.S. medical... - Findley inducted into Shine Academy
The University of Texas System recognized J. Chase Findley, MD, associate professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, and assistant dean for Educational Programs, for his teaching excellence and commitment to enhancing health science... - LaPar serves as AHA Torchbearer
The American Heart Association honored Damien LaPar, MD, MSc, associate professor in the Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, as a “Torchbearer” at the annual Heart Ball, February 15. The role of torchbearer at the heart ball recognizes LaPar’s role in... - Nobel Laureate Bertozzi to present Knobil Lecture
The McGovern Medical School Office of Research Affairs welcomes Carolyn Bertozzi, PhD, 2022 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry, as the 2025 speaker for the annual Ernst Knobil Distinguished Lecture, March 4. Bertozzi will present on “Therapeutic opportunities in glyoscience,” at 10:50... - Kolonin publishes research on role of telomerase in metabolic health
The laboratory of Mikhail Kolonin, PhD, published a new report, “Caloric Restriction and Telomere Preservation in TERT Knockout Adipocyte Progenitors Does Not Rescue from Metabolic Dysfunction due to a TERT Function in Adipocyte Mitochondria” in Aging Cell (external link), which studied... - Hancock announces Biochemistry leadership change
Executive Dean John Hancock announced that following 28 years as chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Rod Kellems, PhD, will step down from this position at the end of this month. He will remain on the Department... - Turning Pro: Bungo named Distinguished Faculty in Professionalism Education
“Education toward professionalism is more than being skilled and knowledgeable. It requires a lifelong transformational change in how we think, act, and feel as doctors. Our professional formation (Turning Pro) is shaped by the community in which we are surrounded.”... - Narula discusses what 4,000-year-old mummies tell us about heart disease
An unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and smoking – considered to be a relatively recent societal curse – are all risk factors to heart disease. But if that is the case, did heart disease exist thousands of years ago? Renowned... - Denicourt publishes research on how cells make proteins
Recent research from the lab of Catherine Denicourt, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, uncovers the vital role of the enzyme TRMT1L in the process of protein production. The Denicourt lab research focuses on understanding... - Medical School research retreat scheduled for March 4
Registration is open for the annual McGovern Medical School Research Retreat, sponsored by the Research Committee, where faculty, graduate students, and fellows can learn more about research conducted on campus and interact with their peers. The event will be held... - Love named interim president of UTHealth Houston
LaTanya Love, MD, an esteemed leader known for fostering academic success and enhancing the overall student and employee experience, has been named interim president of UTHealth Houston, effective March 1. The University of Texas System announced Love’s interim role (external... - Bonow to present Willerson Lecture
The Department of Internal Medicine presents the James T. Willerson Annual Endowed Lecture at noon, Feb. 27 in MSB 3.001 and virtually via Zoom (external link). The 2025 edition of the lecture features Robert O. Bonow, MD, Max and Lilly... - Introducing the new 3D STED microscope at McGovern
A new chapter in scientific discovery is unfolding at McGovern Medical School with the installation of a cutting-edge super-resolution microscope: the Abberior Facility Line Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) system. This innovative technology is the first 3D-STED microscope in the Texas... - Two McGovern research projects receive Rice-TMC seed grants
Two McGovern Medical School research projects received seed grants in 2024 through the Provost’s TMC Collaborator Fund. These grants were facilitated by Rice University’s Office for Educational and Research Initiatives for Collaborative Research (ENRICH). In total, seven research partnerships involving... - Fetal institute to focus on clinical care, research discovery, and education
Five years after the first groundbreaking fetoscopic spina bifida repair surgery using an innovative patch pioneered by researchers at UTHealth Houston, the fetal medicine team is celebrating the milestone of more than 100 procedures performed by the physicians and the... - White to present Dean’s Lecture, Feb. 12
The Office of Research Affairs welcomes Eileen White, PhD, to present the 2025 Dean’s Lecture at 12:15 p.m., Feb. 12 in MSB 1.006. White is the deputy director, chief scientific officer, and associate director for basic research at the Rutgers... - Huffington Lecture scheduled for Feb. 14
The Joan and Stanford Alexander Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, in the Department of Internal Medicine presents the Phyllis Gough Huffington Lecture Series, from 8 a.m. until 9 a.m., Feb. 14 via Zoom. Keynote speaker for the lecture series... - 35th Preventive Cardiology Forum set for Feb. 15
Physicians, nurses, dietitians, caregivers, and other health care professionals with an interest in cardiovascular disease prevention are invited to attend the 35th annual Preventive Cardiology Forum on Feb. 15. The event will be held virtually from 8 a.m. until 12:15... - Jayaraman NMDA research published in Nature Communications
Recent research from the lab of Vasanthi Jayaraman, PhD, professor and John S. Dunn Chair in Biochemistry and Microbiology, studying the role that N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors play in converting chemical signals in the brain to electric ones, has been published... - Joint Psychiatry Conference set for March 1
The Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, along with Baylor College of Medicine and the Texas Children’s Hospital, will host the Joint Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Conference on March 1 at the Cooley Center. The 2025... - Momeny receives NETRF grant
The Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation (external link) has announced Majid Momeny, PhD, instructor at the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine Center for Translational Cancer Research as a recipient of its newest neuroendocrine cancer research grants. “I am grateful to... - Astronauts to headline Women and Girls in Science Symposium
The McGovern Medical School Women Faculty Forum will host the seventh annual International Day of Women and Girls in Science Symposium from 3:30-6:30 p.m., Feb. 11, in the Memorial Hermann Conference Center. The International Day of Women and Girls in... - Applications open for Student & Trainee Travel Awards
The Office of Global Health Initiatives is accepting applications for the Student & Trainee Travel Awards for Global Health through Feb. 15. The awards aim to provide students and trainees with invaluable opportunities to engage in global health work while... - Retiring this year? Stay in touch with university retiree group
If 2025 is your year to retire, consider staying active and in touch with fellow UTHealth Houston retirees by joining the university’s retiree association. The University of Texas Houston Retirees Organization (UTHRO) is a self-funded group that offers retirees a... - Call for nominations: WFF Excellence Awards
Nominations are open for the John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Distinguished Faculty Excellence Awards presented by the Women Faculty Forum. The awards recognize outstanding contributions from women faculty at McGovern Medical School in two categories: Excellence in Research and... - Project to redesign clinical trials for neurologic conditions funded with $2.9M grant
In an effort to close the gap in neurological outcomes for underserved populations, a UTHealth Houston project funded with $2.9 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will engage community partners to improve the design of clinical trials. Neurologic... - New humanities certificate program open to physicians
The McGovern Center for Humanities and Ethics is accepting applications for a new certificate program open to all physicians. The Medical Humanities Workforce Training Program for Physicians will explore contexts, experiences, and critical conceptual issues in medicine and health care,... - UTHealth Houston to lead data coordinating center on $11.4M multi-site clinical trial
UTHealth Houston researchers will serve as the principal investigators of the data coordinating center on an $11.4 million, groundbreaking clinical trial (external link) studying the efficacy of inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) in treating newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The... - Hall named assistant dean, admissions and student affairs
LaTanya Love, MD, dean of Education, has announced David Hall, MD, associate professor of surgery, as assistant dean for Admissions and Student Affairs, effective Jan. 1. Hall joined the McGovern faculty in 2015 and serves as an associate program director... - Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Ji Young Yoo, PhD
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education. This month’s feature is Ji Young Yoo, PhD, associate professor... - Undergraduate internship available through BIG-TCR
Applications are open for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) (external link) Summer Undergraduate Internship, where outstanding undergraduate students can work closely with UTHealth Houston faculty to conduct cancer-related research. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m.,... - Lehnhardt named director of Space Medicine Program
The Space Medicine Program at UTHealth Houston welcomed Kris Lehnhardt, MD, as its new director, effective Jan. 1, 2025. “Dr. Kris Lehnhardt brings a remarkable blend of expertise, innovation, and passion to our rapidly expanding UTHealth Houston Space Medicine Program,”... - Class of 2028 to receive white coats Jan. 17
McGovern Medical School students from the Class of 2028 will take the next step in their medical education journeys when they participate in the annual White Coat Ceremony on Jan. 17. The White Coat Ceremony begins at 1 p.m. at... - Novel glioblastoma treatment research published in Neuro-Oncology
Recent research on the discovery of a novel therapeutic treatment using the oncolytic virus to treat patients with glioblastoma, led by Ji Young Yoo, PhD, associate professor, and Tae Jin Lee, PhD, assistant professor in the Vivian L. Smith Department... - First Person: B.R.I.D.G.E to Health: A student-organized refugee fair
First Person is an occasional series, providing firsthand accounts of outreach programs involving the McGovern Medical School community. This issue features Deepa Iyengar, MD, MPH, professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine, and Stanley G. Schultz, MD, Endowed Professor... - McGovern faculty earn Healthcare Leadership MBA
A cohort of six faculty members from McGovern Medical School successfully earned their MBAs through the Healthcare Organization Leadership Executive MBA program, an innovative initiative sponsored by Harris Health System (external link). The graduates are part of the first Harris... - The study of art helps medical students become better doctors
No two people look at a painting or watch a performance the same way. One might pick up color, brushstrokes, the resonance of a voice. Another might see a hidden figure, the shape of a smile, or the lightness in... - Kellam wins OTA Lifetime Achievement Award
The Orthopaedic Trauma Association (external link) announced James Kellam, MD, professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, and Orthopaedic Residency Associate Program Director, as the winner of its 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award. The honor is among the highest distinctions within... - GSHTC debuts novel hemophilia gene therapy
A novel hemophilia gene therapy drug has been successfully administered to the first patient in Texas outside of a clinical trial setting by physicians at McGovern Medical School and the Gulf States Hemophilia and Thrombophilia Center. The patient was administered... - History of Medicine elective course begins Jan. 8
In its ninth-year presentation, the elective course “Reflections Based on the History of Medicine” will be presented in a virtual format accessible to any member of the McGovern Medical School community beginning Jan. 8. The course, which provides knowledge and... - LoneStar LEND Conference set for Jan. 23-24
The Department of Pediatrics will host the 2024 LoneStar LEND Conference Jan. 23-24 at the Denton A. Cooley, MD & Ralph C. Cooley, DDS University Life Center (7440 Cambridge St.). The two-day event is themed around “Self-Care: Effective Strategies for... - Research uncovers genetic variants in mitral valve conditions
Recent research from second-year McGovern Medical Student Kishan Asokan, and the lab of Siddharth Prakash, MD, PhD, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, on genetic variants of mitral valve conditions has been published in the Journal of the American... - Soto wins Pritzker Prize for Leadership in Parkinson’s Research
The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (external link) has awarded the 2024 Robert A. Pritzker Prize for Leadership in Parkinson’s Research to Claudio Soto, PhD, professor in the Department of Neurology and director of the George and Cynthia... - In Memoriam: Elizabeth Jones, MD
Elizabeth Jones, MD, professor of emergency medicine, died Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at her home, following a battle with gastric cancer. She was 64. A graduate of the Louisiana State University School of Medicine, she completed residencies in internal medicine... - Tebo named assistant dean of global health
Kevin Morano, PhD, senior vice president of Academic and Faculty Affairs and senior associate dean for Faculty Affairs, announced Kristi Tebo, MD, as the inaugural assistant dean of Global Health for McGovern Medical School, effective Dec. 1, 2024. A graduate... - McGovern earns recognition for lifestyle medicine integration
McGovern Medical School recently earned Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) Curriculum Certification status from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine (ACLM) for its integration of lifestyle medicine into medical student coursework. Lifestyle medicine uses therapeutic lifestyle interventions as a primary modality... - At-home brain stimulation for depression is safe and effective
A device that delivers direct stimulation to the brain was found to be a safe and effective means of treating depression at home, according to a new study by researchers at UTHealth Houston; the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience... - Women’s Health Collaborative Workshop set for Dec. 10
The McGovern Medical School Research Committee will host the Women’s Health Collaborative Workshop on Tuesday, Dec. 10 in MSB 3.001. The event will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will feature keynote addresses from Kathryn Gray, MD,... - Herrmann honored as CAP Resident of the Year
The College of American Pathologists (external link) (CAP) presented Amanda Herrmann, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, with the 2024 CAP Resident of the Year Award during a ceremony at CAP24 in October in Las... - New findings uncover dynamic brain mechanisms driving motivated behaviors
New research on the brain circuits regulating motivated behaviors in response to environmental signals, from the laboratories of Fabricio Do Monte, DVM, PhD, associate professor, and Michael Beierlein, PhD, professor, in the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, has been published in... - BICAN data available
The first public release of data from the BRAIN Initiative Cell Atlas Network (BICAN (external link)) is now available, thanks to the creation of a data ecosystem built by UTHealth Houston researchers. The first Rapid Release Inventory project features data... - Grants 101, 102 begins Jan. 13-14
The New Investigator Development Program (NIDP), led by the Office of the Executive Vice President for Academic & Research Affairs, offers an introductory grant preparation program for junior faculty members and administrative support staff beginning with the Grants 101 course... - 8th MASSIN Congress brings global neurosurgery leaders to Houston
The 8th Madjid Samii Society of International Neurosurgery (MASSIN) Congress, held in October, welcomed more than 200 attendees from around the world to the Texas Medical Center, marking a pivotal gathering of neurosurgery professionals. Led by this year’s president, Jacques... - Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Susan Wootton, MD
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education. This month’s feature is Susan Wootton, MD, professor in the... - Grant seeks improvement for stroke patients with large blood vessel blockages
Improving clinical outcomes in stroke patients by closing a gap between successful re-opening of a blocked vessel through endovascular surgery and a reduction of disability is the focus of a $2.5 million grant awarded to UTHealth Houston researchers. The five-year... - First Person: Study on child and maternal nutrition in Colombia
First person is an occasional series, providing firsthand accounts of outreach programs involving the McGovern Medical School community. This issue features Andrea Ramirez Varela, MD, PhD, MPH, assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics and the UTHealth Houston School of... - Meet the 2024-25 UTHealth Houston | Leads McGovern Medical School Fellows
UTHealth Houston | Leads is a one-year student fellowship program to develop future leaders in health care. In the program, UTHealth Houston students learn how to develop self-awareness, increase their leadership confidence, lead others, and effectively influence systems. A total... - Research reveals cellular mechanisms of acute pancreatitis
Led by Department of Surgery faculty and a fourth-year medical student, recent published research sheds light on the role of pancreatic fibroblasts in acute pancreatitis. “Characterization of Pancreatic Collagen-Expressing Fibroblasts in Mouse Acute Pancreatitis” (external link), from Yanna Cao, MD,... - Jalloul awarded 2024 Crow Scholarship
Dounya Jalloul, PhD candidate in the laboratory of Michael Beierlein, PhD, professor in the Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, is the 2024 recipient of the Terry J. Crow, PhD, Scholarship in Neuroscience. Jalloul received the scholarship for her outstanding scholastic... - Call for nominations: President’s Scholar Awards
The President’s Scholar Awards (external link) for Excellence in Research, Teaching, and Clinical Service are given annually to recognize distinguished service by UTHealth Houston faculty members. All members of our UTHealth Houston community are invited to nominate outstanding faculty members... - Study focuses on microRNA’s link to intestinal inflammation
Recently published research from faculty in the Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine reveals a promising innovative approach to treating inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Researchers report that a novel mechanism involving a... - Akassoglou to present Fields Lecture Nov. 8
The Department of Neurology welcomes Katerina Akassoglou, PhD, professor and director of the Gladstone-UCSF Center (external link) for Neurovascular Brain Immunology at the University of California in San Francisco to present the 2024 William S. Fields Lecture. Akassoglou’s lecture titled “Neurovascular... - Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Anna Konovalova, PhD
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education. This month’s feature is Anna Konovalova, PhD, associate professor in... - First infusion in Houston for new Alzheimer’s drug administered at UTHealth Houston
UTHealth Houston is the first institution in Houston to administer an FDA-approved drug, Kisunla (donanemab-azbt), for the treatment of early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. The recipient was 79-year-old Terrie Frankel. “We’re making history today,” Frankel said. Frankel began experiencing memory loss... - Khabele to present Dean’s Lecture Nov. 7
The Office of Research Affairs welcomes Dineo Khabele, MD, to present the 2024 Dean’s Lecture at noon, Nov. 7 in MSB 3.001. Khabele, the Mitchell and Elaine Yanow Professor and chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (external link)... - Fries receives Dunn Foundation Award
Gabriel Fries, PhD, assistant professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, was recently awarded a 2024 John S. Dunn Foundation Collaborative Research Award in conjunction with the Gulf Coast Consortia. Fries will team up... - Innovative stem cell trial for bipolar disorder gives patient hope
Ashley Hallock, 35, describes the day she joined a clinical trial studying stem cells for bipolar disorder as the most important day of her life. “For me, it was a godsend,” she said. Hallock had always struggled a little with... - Research reveals gene regulation breakthrough
Research from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology revealing a breakthrough in understanding gene regulation in human cells was published Oct. 17 in Molecular Cell. “Structural basis of the human transcriptional Mediator regulated by its dissociable Kinase module (external... - Roland wins ASA Mentoring Grant
The American Society of Anesthesiologists (external link) has awarded fourth-year medical student Gavin Roland with a $5,000 ASA Mentoring Grant Award for a new conference to be held at McGovern Medical School in 2025. The goal of the ASA Mentoring... - Hill awarded grant from the NIMH
The National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH) has awarded Mandy J. Hill, DrPH, MPH, professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine and director of Population Health, with an R34 grant following the completion of her pilot program as a Ujima... - Prakash research published in PLOS One
Recent research identifying potential novel candidates for genetic testing in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) defects, led by the lab of Siddharth Prakash, MD, PhD, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, and primary contributors Hasan Albasha and Steven... - Treatment extends hope to patients with medication-resistant epilepsy
Findings of a study on a novel and minimally invasive laser therapy for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy caused by periventricular nodular heterotopia (PNVH) have been published by UTHealth Houston researchers in the American Neurological Association’s Annals of Neurology (external link).... - Ramirez-Varela earns PRIME award to support active lifestyles for Latino children
The UTHealth Houston School of Public Health awarded Andrea Ramirez-Varela, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics and the Department of Epidemiology at the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health, with PRIME funding for her study Supporting Active... - Blackburn, Rui earn Brain Aneurysm Foundation Grants
The Brain Aneurysm Foundation has announced Spiros Blackburn, MD, associate professor, and Yanning Rui, PhD, assistant professor, in the Department of Neurosurgery as recipients of the foundation’s 2024 research grants. The Brain Aneurysm Foundation (external link) is the leading advocacy... - Collaboration establishes CDC Injury Control Research Center
The only Injury Control Research Center in Texas has been established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at UTHealth Houston in partnership with Baylor College of Medicine. “I’m beyond thrilled to bring an Injury Control Research Center to... - Academy of Master Educators welcomes 2022, 2023 inductees
The Academy of Master Educators (AME) honored the 2022 and 2023 inductees in an induction ceremony and dinner held on Thursday, Aug. 22, at III by Wolfgang Puck. Vineeth John, MD, chairman of the academy, welcomed 13 new inductees for... - Geriatric Trauma Symposium set for Nov. 15
McGovern Medical School and Memorial Hermann Hospital-Texas Medical Center will host the 2024 Geriatric Trauma Symposium on Friday, Nov. 15, at the Denton A. Cooley, MD, and Ralph C. Cooley, DDS University Life Center. Held from 8 a.m. until 5... - 28 faculty named Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment
As a continual knowledge of the work it takes to foster a positive and professional learning atmosphere, the Directors of Learning Environment at McGovern Medical School announced 28 faculty members who have earned the title of 2024 Champions of the... - Jayaraman named Biophysical Society fellow
The Biophysical Society announced Vasanthi Jayaraman, PhD, professor and John S. Dunn Chair in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, as a fellow in the 2025 Society Fellows cohort. Fellows will be honored at the Biophysical Society’s (external link) 69th Annual Meeting,... - Taegtmeyer receives IACS-NAS Merit Award
A renown cardiology faculty member is the recipient of the Merit Award from the International Academy of Cardiovascular Sciences – North American Section. Heinrich Taegtmeyer, MD, DPhil, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology, recently received this highest honor bestowed... - Mood Disorders Conference set for Oct. 11-12
The Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences hosts the 2024 UTHealth Houston Mood Disorders Conference, Oct. 11-12 at the Cooley Life Center (7440 Cambridge St.). The theme for the event is Bipolar Disorder Across the Lifespan... - Research identifies rare genetic variant in bicuspid aortic valve disease
Genetic variants linked to a rare form of bicuspid aortic valve disease that affects young adults and can lead to dangerous and potentially life-threatening aortic complications have been identified by researchers at UTHealth Houston. The study was published in the... - UTHealth Houston recruits star investigator team to expand clinical and outcomes research
UTHealth Houston has recruited two renowned scientists from Cleveland Clinic to bolster clinical research across the institution. Daniel Sessler, MD, the most published and cited scientist in any field at Cleveland Clinic, will serve as the inaugural vice president for... - Hill publishes research from INSPIRE Study
Recent research led by Mandy Hill, DrPH, MPH, professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine, studying how individuals perceive their own health after experiencing COVID-19 symptoms has been published in the Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities. The research,... - Colasurdo announces plan to step down as UTHealth Houston president
Giuseppe N. Colasurdo, MD, announced Monday that he will be stepping down from his position as president and Alkek-Williams Distinguished Chair at UTHealth Houston. Colasurdo has served in the role for 12 years—the longest tenure of any UTHealth Houston president—and... - Symposium on Aging Research scheduled for Oct. 16
The 7th Annual Uthealth Houston Symposium on Aging Research, highlighting the ongoing clinical and basic aging research at UTHealth Houston, will be held from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., Oct. 16 at the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine. Registration... - CME office increases programming
Since its move back to the Medical School in 2022, the Office of Continuing Medical Education has dramatically increased its number of conferences and activities and offers new technology for learners. In the last fiscal year, the office managed 30... - Roy awarded scholarship to attend AcademyHealth Annual Research Meeting
Sharmily Roy, MPH, PhD candidate in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, was recently awarded a scholarship to attend the AcademyHealth Annual Research Meeting (ARM). The research meeting brings together a wide variety of health... - Pediatric residents earn AAP Grant
The Section on Pediatric Trainees of the American Academy of Pediatrics (external link) has selected Alexandria Laws, MD, PGY-2, and Andrea Pinto, MD, PGY-2, from the Department of Pediatrics as recipients of SOPT Community Access to Child Health Resident Grant.... - 15th annual Yatsu Day set for Oct. 4
The UTHealth Houston Institute for Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease (external link) will host the 15th Annual Yatsu Day Symposium, “Reviving Hope: AI Innovations and Emerging Technologies in Stroke Recovery,” from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., Oct. 4 at the Cooley... - $3.3M grant will study eating pattern impacts on circadian rhythms
A groundbreaking research project to understand how diet and eating patterns can affect the body’s internal clock and influence aging is underway at UTHealth Houston, thanks to a $3.3 million grant from the National Institute on Aging (external link). The... - Taegtmeyer wins mentoring award
A longtime cardiology faculty member is the recipient of the 2024 International Society for Heart Research North American Section’s Eric N. Olson Mentorship Award (external link). Heinrich Taegtmeyer, MD, DPhil, professor in the Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology, is the... - Mahdavinia to lead new Allergy and Immunology Division
The Department of Internal Medicine has announced that Mahboobeh (Maha) Mahdavinia, MD, PhD, professor and John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Distinguished Chair, has joined McGovern Medical School as the Division Director for the newly established Allergy and Immunology Division,... - Sickle Cell Disease Symposium set for Sept. 27
The UTHealth Houston Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences will host the Sickle Cell Disease Symposium from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Sept. 27, at the Memorial Hermann Hospital – Texas Medical Center. The Sickle Cell Disease Symposium brings experts... - Caretti earns PERF research grant
The Pediatric Epilepsy Research Foundation has awarded the 2024 PERF CNS Elterman Research Grant to Viola Caretti, MD, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics. The PERF CNS Elterman Research Grant is awarded to early-stage investigators who are within... - UTHealth Houston Salutation set for Sept. 5
All UTHealth Houston students are invited to attend the 26th annual Student InterCouncil Salutation on Thursday, Sept. 5. The event, co-sponsored by the UTHealth Houston President’s Office, will feature free food and drinks, giveaways, and prizes such as monthly parking... - Registration open for 11th Annual IACS-NAS Meeting
McGovern Medical School will cohost the 11th Annual Meeting of the North American Section of the International Academy of Cardiovascular Sciences in a tribute to James T. Willerson, MD, from Sept. 19-21. The three-day event is co-hosted by McGovern Medical... - Furr Stimming receives TNS Lifetime Achievement Award
Erin Furr Stimming, MD, professor and Memorial Hermann Endowed Chair in the Department of Neurology, has been honored with the 2024 Texas Neurological Society Lifetime Achievement Award at the society’s 50th Anniversary Celebration in Austin. The TNS Lifetime Achievement Award... - Meet the Newest Faces of McGovern Medical School
The 2024-25 school year is underway at McGovern Medical School, and the Class of 2028 officially began their medical school journeys on Aug. 5. The McGovern Medical School Class of 2028 is made up of 240 students from 10 states,... - Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award: Brandi Karnes, MD
Brandi Karnes, MD, assistant professor in the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award, presented by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation. The Leonard... - Devlin receives first-ever Sacco Scholarship
The American Academy of Neurology and the American Heart Association awarded the first-ever Ralph L. Sacco Scholarship for Brain Health to Patrick Devlin, PhD, postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Neurology. Devlin receives a $150,000 two-year scholarship to support... - Danielski earns grant to attend ACNP
Lucineia Danielski, PharmD, PhD, postdoctoral fellow in the Translational Psychiatry Program at the Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, received a grant from the International Brain Research Organization to attend the ACNP conference in December 2024... - Saltarrelli named FADLM
Jerome G. Saltarrelli Jr., PhD, D (ABHI), assistant professor and HLA Lab director in the Department of Surgery, has been inducted as a Fellow into the Academy of Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine. The ADLM is a respected institution that serves... - Soutullo named AACAP Distinguished Fellow
Cesar Soutullo, MD, PhD, John S. Dunn Professor in the Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and vice chair of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, has been named an American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) Distinguished Fellow. The... - Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Bindu Akkanti, MD
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education. This month’s feature is Bindu Akkanti, MD, associate professor and... - Medical School adds Master of Science in Anesthesia Program
McGovern Medical School recently matriculated its inaugural class to its master’s of science degree in anesthesia program. The 35 students started class in August. Supported by the Medical School’s Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, the program is... - In memoriam: Jorge Quesada, MD
Jorge Quesada, MD, retired faculty member from the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, died July 31, 2024. He was 77. He joined the McGovern Medical School faculty in 2008 and retired in 2022. A graduate from... - Class of 2028 ready for Henry Strobel Retreat
McGovern Medical School will officially welcome the Class of 2028 to campus with the 48th Annual Henry Strobel Retreat on Aug. 14 at Camp Cho-Yeh in Livingston, Texas. The Henry Strobel Retreat is a chance for incoming McGovern Medical School... - Genetic testing alerts family to lurking danger
More than a decade after the death of Matt’s father, in 2005 doctors discovered Matt’s 11-month-old son—rushed to the hospital after turning blue—had an enlarged aorta. Also known as thoracic aortic aneurysm, the condition can be deadly if left undiagnosed... - Boscutti awarded scholarship to attend ACNP
Andrea Boscutti, MD, postdoctoral research fellow in the Louis A. Faillace, MD Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, was recently awarded an American College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ACNP) travel award to attend the 2024 ACNP conference in Phoenix in December. Boscutti... - Mosqueda to present Nixon Lecture Aug. 14
The Department of Family and Community Medicine will host the Sam & Elizabeth Nixon Lectureship in Family Medicine, Aug. 14 in MSB 2.135 and via Zoom. The keynote speaker for the lectureship will be Laura Mosqueda, MD, professor in the Department... - CCTS secures $55.5 million grant, extends leadership in translational research
The Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences (external link) at UTHealth Houston has secured a $55.5 million grant from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (external link), an agency of the National Institutes of Health, extending its funding through... - QEP Forum welcomes Dr. Patricia Flatley Brennan
Discover how health care policy impacts the world’s largest biomedical library and the center of biomedical informatics and computational biology in the next UTHealth Houston Health Policy Forum, part of the university’s Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP). Save the date for... - SSRF efficacy studied in new research paper
Recent research from David Meyer, MD, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery, has been published in the Annals of Surgery, studying the effectiveness of surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF). Patients suffering from rib fractures, which tend to be... - Prepping for back to school
While summer is still in full swing, your children’s return to the classroom will arrive before you know it. In preparation, parents can use these expert tips for ensuring the school year gets off to a healthy start. Being planned... - 28 faculty named Champions of Clinical Learning Environment
As a continual acknowledgment of the work it takes to create a positive and professional learning environment, the Directors of Learning Environment announced 28 faculty members who have earned the title of 2023 Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment. The... - Cannabis use associated with increased risk of surgical complications
People who are regular cannabis users are at an increased risk of experiencing complications before, during, and after surgery, according to a study by researchers with UTHealth Houston published in JAMA Surgery (external link). Nearly 16.3 million people had a... - McGovern, Memorial Hermann host Quality Symposium
McGovern Medical School and Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center held the annual UTHealth Houston & Memorial Hermann-TMC Quality Symposium, May 12. The daylong event featured presentations from 2023 Clinical Safety & Effectiveness (CS&E) program graduates. The event featured a keynote address... - TX-CARES working to improve emergency care
Since 2019, the McGovern Medical School Department of Emergency Medicine has been working to optimize patient outcomes after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) through the Texas-Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival (TX-CARES). Prior to 2019, Texas was the largest state in... - Disser wins 2023 Kuckein Student Research Fellowship
The Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society (external link) has named Nathaniel Disser, MS4, as a 2023 recipient of the Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship. “This award has been a culmination of the support from the Molecular and Translational... - Different areas of the brain activated depending on structural complexity of music, language
Distinct, though neighboring, areas of the brain are activated when processing music and language, with specific sub-regions engaged for simple melodies versus complex melodies, and for simple versus complex sentences, according to research from UTHealth Houston. The study, led by... - 47th Henry Strobel Retreat set for Aug. 2
McGovern Medical School will officially welcome the Class of 2027 to campus with the 47th Henry Strobel Retreat, Aug. 2 at Camp Cho-Yeh, in Livingston, Texas. The Henry Strobel Retreat is a chance for incoming McGovern Medical School students to... - Psychiatry to host Houston Addictions Conference
The Louis A. Faillace, MD, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences will host the 2023 UTHealth Houston Psychiatry Academy Addiction Disorders Conference, Aug. 25 in the Denton A. Cooley, MD and Ralph C. Cooley, DDS University Life Center (7440 Cambridge... - Women in Medicine & Sciences Feature: Jordan Lake, MD, MSc
Each month, the Women Faculty Forum presents its Women in Medicine and Sciences Feature, highlighting the women faculty at McGovern Medical School who are leaders in medicine, research, and education. This month’s feature is Jordan Lake, MD, MSc, associate professor... - MindGames team wins back-to-back championships
For the fifth time in 11 years, the UTHealth Houston Psychiatry MindGames team brought home the trophy from the national competition of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), thanks to team members Caroline McCool, MD; Hunter Hinman, MD; and Daniel Liaou,... - Keeping kids safe from Houston mosquitoes
If it’s summer in Houston, you can expect to see mosquitoes. Our climate provides the perfect storm of heat, humidity, frequent rain, and mild winter temperatures that rarely kill them. Experts are seeing more mosquito activity in 2023 than last... - A hitchhiker’s guide to the hospital
“I am not sure what roads lay ahead when starting this journey. From student to resident to educator, the trip was shorter than I thought it would be. Looking in the rearview mirror, a lot of growth, happiness, and change.... - First Person: Calderón lives dream of improving medicine in Ecuador
First person is an occasional series, providing firsthand accounts of outreach programs involving our McGovern Medical School community. This issue features Camila Calderón Molestina, MD, staff physician in the Department of Emergency Medicine. Four years ago as my residency application... - Novel research on neural stem/progenitor cells in adult spinal cord published in Cell Reports
Research from the lab of Jiaqian Wu, PhD, professor in the Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery and the Institute of Molecular Medicine, identifying new subpopulations of cells that could be leveraged to promote regeneration following spinal cord injury has...