In a first-of-its-kind finding, researchers at University of Iowa Health Care discovered that specific genetic sequences have an outsized impact on humans’ language abilities and that these sequences evolved before humans and Neanderthals diverged.

Farnoosh Shemirani, PhD, explores how nutrition can improve health outcomes for people living with neurological and metabolic diseases.

Ted Abel, professor and chair of the Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology in the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine and the Roy J. Carver Director of the Iowa Neuroscience Institute, has been appointed the university’s first president and provost distinguished fellow. The new role within the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost will allow Abel to have an even…

To take the next step in migraine research and treatment, Andrew Russo, PhD, is collaborating with a new generation of scientists who bring complementary skills and technical expertise that weren’t conceivable when he joined the UI faculty in 1988.

Ellen Voigt’s research is setting the stage for next-generation therapies for malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor. In March 2026, Voigt accepted the University of Iowa’s Graduate Research Excellence Award, which recognizes students in terminal degree programs who are conducting research that makes a significant contribution to their field.

For Sean Westendorf, MD, practicing medicine in Waverly is more than just a job. Born and raised in the northeast Iowa community, he joined Waverly Health Center (WHC) in August 2025 as a family practice provider at Christophel Clinic. Westendorf now cares for neighbors, teachers, coaches, and friends who helped shape his journey.

James D. Byrne, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of radiation oncology with University of Iowa Health Care, was named one of two finalists for the 2026 BioInnovation Institute & Science Prize for Innovation. The prize recognizes outstanding researchers working at the intersection of life sciences and entrepreneurship, with an emphasis on translating scientific discoveries into practical…

The University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine continues to lead the nation in graduate health sciences education, earning the No. 1 ranking* in physician assistant studies and services and the No. 2 ranking in physical therapy and rehabilitation science in the 2026–2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools.

Magdalena Maginot, MD, wasn’t planning to stay in Iowa. Everything changed, however, when she enrolled in the Public Psychiatry Fellowship (PPF), a new fellowship program offered by the University of Iowa Department of Psychiatry.