One of three scholars announced October 29, 2025 by U President Taylor Randall, Gagnon is Associate Professor in the School of Biological Sciences and a former recipient of the Mario Capecchi Endowed Chair. The other two are biochemist Katsu Funai and Lauren Barth-Cohen, associate professor in educational psychology and adjunct associate professor in the Department of Physics & Astronomy in the College of Science.

“What connects this year’s Presidential Scholar cohort is their commitment to turning research into real-world impact,” says Randall. “Whether uncovering how zebrafish heal, how our metabolism adapts to modern life or how science is learned, each of these scholars is advancing knowledge and discovery with the power to change lives.”

The esteemed cohort of awardees have been given this honor because of their exceptional potential and significant contributions to scholarship, education and outreach at the U.

“Our Presidential Scholars embody the spirit of curiosity and collaboration that defines the U,” says Bob Carter, MD, CEO for U of U Health and executive vice president for health sciences. “Their work not only deepens our understanding of human health and learning but also paves the way for innovations that will improve lives across Utah and beyond.”

This award is accompanied by $10,000 in funding, provided by an anonymous donor, each year for three years. Recipients can use these funds at their own discretion to support their scholarly, teaching and/or outreach activities. The U hopes that this will recognize the achievements of mid-career faculty, support efforts to further their research missions and enhance retention.

Gagnon is interested in learning how animals change as they grow, age and face challenges in their environment. Using the zebrafish as a model organism, he manipulates their genes, cells and environments to better learn how vertebrates function when faced with specific problems, such as injury, aging and infection. He runs the Gagnon Lab, which employs students who get to conduct projects of their own. Recently, one of those students conducted research that led to the lab discovering how zebrafish create their own sunscreen to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation—a skill Gagnon hypothesized has been lost in mammals.

“I am proud of these scholars and the work they do to learn more about issues that impact our community,” Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Mitzi Montoya said. “Their findings can help us build a brighter, healthier future.”

Adapted from the announcement by Emma Campbell - Communications Specialist, Office of the Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs