HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — David Gozal, M.D., M.B.A., Ph.D. (Hon), vice president for health affair and dean of the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine at Marshall University, and his wife, Elaine Gozal, MSc, have established a new research endowment to support medical students who demonstrate excellence in research and scholarly achievement. 

The Dr. David & Mrs. Elaine Gozal Research Scholarship reflects the Gozals’ shared belief that research is central to the practice of modern medicine. By encouraging medical students to engage in rigorous scientific inquiry, the fund aims to strengthen critical thinking, innovation and discovery—skills essential to advancing patient care and improving health outcomes. 

“Research prepares physicians on how to ask better questions, evaluate evidence and translate discovery into patient care,” Dr. Gozal said. “By investing in students who are actively engaged in research, we are helping prepare future physicians to lead, innovate and improve medicine for the communities they serve while bringing distinction to West Virginia.” 

The scholarship will provide annual awards to third- and fourth-year medical students whose research has earned poster or oral presentation recognition at Marshall University’s Annual Health Sciences Research Day or who have presented qualifying research at regional or national scientific conferences. Through this scholarship, the Gozals seek to recognize outstanding student researchers while reinforcing the essential role of discovery in medical education, clinical advancement and the future of health care. 

“This scholarship is a reflection of gratitude and love for the place we now call home,” said Mrs. Gozal. “This community carries a quiet strength and a deep sense of belonging. It is our hope that this endowment will nurture generations of physicians whose curiosity is guided by compassion, whose research is grounded in service, and whose lives in medicine become a source of healing and hope for others.” 

Dr. Gozal, who was appointed vice president and dean in 2023, is a world-renowned researcher in the fields of sleep and respiratory medicine and throughout his career has instigated multidisciplinary collaborations to optimize discovery and patient outcomes around the globe. He is among the most highly cited researchers in the world and the recipient of dozens of honors, awards and recognitions for his work. 

For more information or to make a gift to support the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, please visit give.marshall.edu/project/31785 contact Linda Holmes, associate dean for development and alumni affairs, at 304.691.1711 or holmes@marshall.edu. 

Date Posted: Wednesday, January 28, 2026