When Christopher Minson joined the University of Oregon human physiology department in 2000, the sort of invasive research the cardiovascular scientist specialized in was nearly unheard of in undergraduate medical programs. However, Minson changed that. By working with the University’s institutional review board and local medical community, he implemented research techniques at the UO that were usually reserved for medical universities and medical centers.
“The level of work I had been doing had not been done here,” Minson said.
It was announced this November that, for the changes he had made, Minson had been awarded the Medical Research Foundation of Oregon’s Mentor Award, an honor highlighting those who make significant advancements in medical education and research.
According to Minson, the techniques he brought to the University have broadened the university’s research.
“It allows you to get a better and more full understanding to of the (human body’s) system,” he said. “We can get more detailed information from the body by using more invasive techniques.”
The faculty’s cutting edge work also has attracted many students who aspire to work in the medical field, who see a connection between the UO’s unique undergraduate laboratory work and their future career goals.
“The type of work and the approaches we use are unique to the University of Oregon and undergraduate research,” Minson said.
Though Minson is the one being awarded for the changes in the department, he emphasized the work of his colleagues in his success.
“I really do believe there are a lot of people who’ve had a hand in my receiving this,” he said. “For that, I’m very humbled.”