VPRED Award for Meritorious Technology/Science
Elizabeth Johnson
Elizabeth Johnson, an assistant professor in Montana State University’s Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing, is the recipient of this year’s Vice President for Research Award for Meritorious Technology/Science. The award recognizes a faculty member who has made significant technological or scientific contributions with the potential for transfer to the private sector. It carries a $2,500 honorarium.
Johnson has been an integral leader in creating a medical device called TrialWear that will soon be commercialized. The device is a wearable patch that connects users with their clinical trial data and emergency contact systems, reducing communication errors between providers that can be detrimental to patients.
Johnson also spearheaded work on “The Kind Room,” a project that hones principles of health care design. Her research has shown how design choices in health care settings, such as circadian lighting and color schemes, can improve patient outcomes. She has also hosted global experts on clinical design and architecture on her podcast, “Designing Care on Air .”
Both projects are currently on display at the Florence Nightingale Museum in London.
“Dr. Johnson’s creativity is grounded in evidence and driven by empathy. Her work embodies the very intent of this award by merging scientific inquiry, technological insight and creative design to improve human health and the environments where care is delivered,” wrote Debbie Gregory, co-founder of the Nursing Institute for Healthcare Design, in her nomination letter.
Other nominators commended Johnson’s research approach that does not stop at creative concept but instead puts ideas to the test in real-life settings. Overall, her research and design innovations show how creative technology can translate into a measurable impact on rural health care.