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Morehouse School of Medicine hosted the 38th Annual Dr. Curtis L. Parker Student Research Symposium on February 11th, 2026, bringing together students, trainees, faculty and research leaders for a full day of scholarship and scientific exchange. 

Established in 1998 and named in honor of Curtis L. Parker, the symposium reflects Dr. Parker’s lasting impact on research and student mentorship at MSM. A distinguished biomedical scientist and former Associate Dean for Basic Science and Research, Dr. Parker helped expand opportunities for trainees to engage in meaningful research — a vision that continues through this annual event. 

 

A Platform for Emerging Scientists 

The 2026 symposium featured competitive oral presentations, more than 100 poster presentations and the Three Minute Thesis® competition. Students across MSM programs — including MD, PhD, MSBR, MSCR, MPH, PA, undergraduate and postdoctoral training — presented research spanning translational science, neuroscience, clinical investigation, public health and health disparities. 

Faculty judges and research leaders engaged presenters in discussion and evaluation, reinforcing MSM’s culture of academic rigor and mentorship. 

 

Keynote Address: The Vulnerable Brain 

The keynote address was delivered by Yasmin Hurd, Ward-Coleman Chair in Translational Neuroscience and Director of the Addiction Institute at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. 

In her lecture, “The Vulnerable Brain: Pathways to and from Addiction,” Dr. Hurd explored the neurobiology of substance use disorders and emerging, science-driven treatment approaches. Her work continues to shape research and clinical innovation in addiction medicine. 

 

Honoring Legacy and Leadership 

The symposium also recognizes leaders who advanced minority health and biomedical research. The Honorable Louis B. Stokes Research Award honors Louis B. Stokes for his national leadership in strengthening research infrastructure and minority health professions training. The Jay Romans Medical Student Research Award commemorates Chaplain (Lieutenant Colonel) Earl Jay Romans and supports student research at MSM. 

 

2026 Student Award Recipients 

The day concluded with the presentation of awards recognizing outstanding scholarship: 

• Dana Battle – Curtis L. Parker Award (PhD Category) 

• MacKenzie White – Graduate Education in Biomedical Science Award (Master’s Category) 

• Shaylyn Sullivan – Graduate Education in Public Health Award 

• Montana Williams Johnson – Honorable Louis B. Stokes Research Award (Undergraduate Category) 

• Juan Gomez – Jay Romans Medical Student Research Award (Medical Student Category) 

• William Agbozo – Postdoctoral Research Award 

• Maya Dewey and Zahra Irfan – Best Group Presentation Award 

 

Three Minute Thesis® Competition Winners: 

• Keturah Eaves – First Place 

• Ayomide Olayiwola – People’s Choice Award 

 

For 38 years, the Curtis L. Parker Research Symposium has highlighted the strength of MSM’s research community and its commitment to advancing science that improves health outcomes. Each year, the event affirms the institution’s mission of leading the creation and advancement of health equity to achieve health justice. 

 

 

 

 

About the Author

Michael Martin is a content strategist who believes in crafting compelling stories that inspire and connect. With a pen for storytelling, he brings the journeys of students, faculty and staff to life, highlighting their impact and dedication to healthcare.

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Michael Martin
Digital Content Strategist
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mamartin@msm.edu