Scott Emerson Health Innovation Award

Congratulations to the 2022 Awardee - Analynn Cooper!

Analynn is an undergraduate researcher working with Associate Professor Dr. Gar Ye Koh to explore the effect high-fat, high-sugar diets during pregnancy have on Vitamin D levels in mice offspring and how that potentially impacts human health + behavior.

Analynn Cooper standing beside research poster in ballroom during Undergraduate Research Conference
Analynn Cooper at the 2022 Undergraduate Research Conference

About the Award

The Scott Emerson Health Innovation Award recognizes undergraduate research and ideas with potential to improve human health and heath care.

Key Dates:

  • Abstract Submission Deadline: March 28, 2022
  • Research Presentation:  April 22, 2022 
  • Award Announcement: April 22, 2022

The $2,000 award is presented in Collaboration with the TXST Undergraduate Research Conference and Translational Health Research Center.

hexagonal logo with heath related icons


How to Apply

Who is Eligible:

Undergraduate students, researchers or honors thesis participants whose work involves a new technology, approach or other innovation with the potential to improve human health or healthcare. Open across all colleges and departments at Texas State University.

Application Process:

Submit an abstract for the Undergraduate Research Conference (URC) Once accepted, you will receive an email and link to complete the URC Symposium information form where you will select the option to compete for the Scott Emerson Health Innovation Award.

Award Selection Based Upon:

  • Potential to positively impact human health and/or healthcare.
  • Research approach and rigor of the investigation or work
  • Innovation and capacity to advance the current standard of care, diagnosis, delivery of care, or prevention/intervention.
  • Ability to solve a complex, real-world problem with commercial potential.

Previous Awardees

Renya Maku - 2020 Awardee Presentation

McKenzie Siller - 2021 Awardee Presentation

Renya Maku - Award Highlight