LEXINGTON, Ky. — The University of Kentucky Board of Trustees has recognized 17 faculty members as University Research Professors for the 2026-27 academic year, celebrating their contributions to research and scholarship that address critical challenges facing Kentucky and beyond.

The honorees represent work across UK's colleges and centers, including fields such as biology, engineering, medicine, law, business, nursing and oral health sciences, according to an announcement from UK News. Each recipient receives a one-year award of $10,000 and participates in university events celebrating the program.

"It is our privilege each year to recognize distinguished experts who have made significant contributions across the breadth of research fields at the University of Kentucky," said Ilhem Messaoudi, UK's acting vice president for research. "This cohort of University Research Professors have demonstrated excellence in fields that address scientific, social, cultural and economic challenges in our region and around the world."

Established by the Board of Trustees in 1976, the professorships program recognizes research excellence across the full spectrum of university work. College leaders develop criteria for excellence within their disciplines, then nominate faculty who exemplify those standards.

The 2026-27 honorees are Wayne T. Sanderson (biosystems and agricultural engineering), Ashley W. Seifert (biology), Nathaniel Stapleton (mathematics), Russell Jame (finance and quantitative methods), Andrew Pilny (communication), Ian Boggero (oral health science), Patrick Lee Lucas (school of interiors), Danelle Stevens-Watkins (educational, school and counseling psychology), Scott Berry (mechanical and aerospace engineering), Miriam Kienle (school of art and visual studies), James M. Donovan (law), Ann L. Coker (obstetrics and gynecology), Greg A. Gerhardt (neuroscience), Mary Kay Rayens (nursing), Rachel Hogg-Graham (health management and policy), Joseph K. Young (diplomacy and international commerce), and Douglas A. Boyd (oral history).

UK secured $496.9 million in external grants and contracts in fiscal year 2025, demonstrating the university's strength as a major research institution. Throughout the summer, UK News will feature individual 2026-27 University Research Professors to highlight their areas of research and scholarly impact.