Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine (LMU-DCOM) has named English Todd, OMS II, from the Harrogate campus, and Nicole Neiman, OMS III, from the Knoxville campus, as recipients of the 2025 Student Researcher of the Year (SROY) award. The award recognizes their significant contributions to research, dedication to advancing medical knowledge and commitment to integrating scientific discovery with clinical practice.
Todd, recognized for her work in cancer research, earned first place at the ACOS-MSS conference. Her achievement impressed the Harrogate SROY Committee.
“I am deeply honored to be named Student Researcher of the Year for the Harrogate Campus,” Todd said. “From the start of my medical school journey at DCOM, I’ve been focused on research that bridges the gap between scientific discovery and clinical practice. I’m grateful to have worked under Dr. Mondal and Dr. Gromley, whose mentorship allowed me to explore natural medicine with meaningful clinical applications. This recognition reaffirms my commitment to advancing medical knowledge, and I look forward to continuing my research journey to improve patient care and the field of osteopathic medicine.”
Todd’s passion for research was fostered as a team research leader at Auburn University, where she dedicated countless hours to advancing her knowledge of cancer.
Neiman, selected as Student Researcher of the Year for the Knoxville campus, has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing osteopathic medicine and patient-centered care. Her research spans from pediatric inflammatory bowel disease and virtual reality in pain management at Stanford University to osteopathic research at LMU-DCOM.
“I’m grateful for the research opportunities I’ve had and the mentors who’ve guided me,” Neiman said. “I wouldn’t be the researcher, future physician, or person I am today without them. I look forward to providing similar opportunities to students and mentoring them during their medical school journeys.”
Dr. Natalie Freeman, assistant dean of research at LMU-DCOM, congratulated both students, noting the importance of research in medical education.
“Research opportunities like those pursued by English and Nicole are essential in shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders,” Freeman said. “Their dedication to advancing medical knowledge benefits their personal growth and contributes to the broader field of osteopathic medicine. We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to their continued success in both research and patient care.”
Todd and Neiman’s work reflects LMU-DCOM’s commitment to research that bridges basic science and clinical practice. Their contributions will leave a lasting impact on the healthcare community.
The DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine is located on the campus of Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee, and at LMU-Knoxville in Knoxville, Tennessee. LMU-DCOM is an integral part of LMU’s values-based learning community and is dedicated to preparing the next generation of osteopathic physicians to provide health care in the often-underserved region of Appalachia and beyond. For more information about LMU-DCOM, call 1.800.325.0900, ext. 7082, email dcom@LMUnet.edu, or visit us online at http://med.LMUnet.edu.
