Eric E. Conn Young Investigator Award
The Eric E. Conn Young Investigator Award, first given by the Society in 2011, honors Eric E. Conn’s contributions in plant biology by recognizing young scientists who will be inspired to follow in his footsteps. The award recognizes not only outstanding research but also demonstrated excellence in outreach, public service, mentoring, or teaching by plant scientists at the beginning of their careers. This award is a monetary award made biennially for demonstrated commitment by a member of the Society who is generally not more than five years post-Ph.D. on January 1st of the year of the presentation. It also provides a one year membership to the Society. Breaks in careers will be considered when addressing the time limit of this award.
2025 Winner: Kevin Cox
Washington University in St. Louis/Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO
Dr. Kevin Cox Jr. is recognized for his valuable contributions to plant pathology and spatial biology research and his deep commitment to meaningful outreach and service. Kevin is widely known for his innovative studies in spatial biology, which includes developing useful methods in transcriptomics, expansion microscopy, and automated whole-plant phenotyping. Kevin’s research contributions, which integrate microscopy and transcriptomics, provide rich insight into how physiology powers plant immunity and duckweed biology. In addition, Kevin is a devoted and effective mentor, unstinting in service to his discipline, and a leader in diversifying academia and making a career in plant science truly available to all.
Tobias Baskin, chair (2023-2029)
Kadeem Gilbert, past winner (2024-2025)
Pablo Jenik (2023-2027)
Martha Ibore Natukunda (2023-2027)
Dongfang Wang (2024-2029)
Sylvia Lee, Staff Liaison