Wake Forest University School of Medicine is proud to announce the 2025–2026 Dean’s Research Scholars – six exceptional mid-career faculty recognized for their transformative research and leadership in biomedical engineering, critical care, artificial intelligence, epidemiology, and molecular therapeutics. These scholars are advancing groundbreaking discoveries that are shaping the future of medicine and improving patient outcomes worldwide.
Their work spans critical areas including ICU respiratory failure, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular health, aging, and innovative gene-targeted therapies, driving new understanding and treatment of complex medical challenges.
Meet the 2025–2026 Dean’s Research Scholars:
- Ashley Weaver, PhD – Biomedical engineer using advanced imaging and modeling to study injury, aging, and musculoskeletal health across high- and low-energy trauma. She leads several NIH-funded trials and imaging cores.
- Oguz Akbilgic, PhD – Health informatics expert developing AI-powered, wearable technologies for cardiovascular and maternal health. His innovations include an FDA-designated Breakthrough Device.
- Kevin Gibbs, MD – Critical care physician leading ICU-based trials focused on emergency airway management, mechanical ventilation, and nutrition to improve outcomes in hospitalized patients.
- Keith T. Gagnon, PhD – Biochemist advancing CRISPR-based and RNA-targeted therapeutics for diseases such as ALS and HIV, using multi-omics and AI-guided gene-editing approaches.
- Elizabeth Jensen, PhD, MPH – Epidemiologist studying early-life exposures and gene–environment interactions in chronic pediatric and maternal conditions, including diabetes and immune-mediated diseases.
- Joseph Rigdon, PhD, MS – Biostatistician focused on causal inference and clinical trial design. He leads the BERD group and develops tools for identifying treatment-effect subgroups in clinical research.
“The Dean’s Research Scholars embody our vision for a vibrant, innovative, and impactful research enterprise,” said L. Ebony Boulware, MD, MPH, Dean of the School of Medicine and Chief Science Officer and Vice Chief Academic Officer for Advocate Health. “Each scholar advances research that pushes scientific boundaries and improves lives. We are proud to support their continued growth as leaders shaping the future of medicine and health.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Research Leaders
Now in its second year, the Dean’s Research Scholars Program supports rising research leaders with resources and recognition to advance their work and leadership potential.Please join us in congratulating the 2025–2026 Dean’s Research Scholars and celebrating the outstanding research excellence that drives innovation at the School of Medicine.