Dr. Kimberly Gramm presents the 2024 IP Innovator and Entrepreneurship Awards at the Tulane University Research, Scholarship, and Artistic Achievement Gala
The Tulane Innovation Institute joined the Tulane University Office of Research at the 2024 Research, Scholarship, and Artistic Achievement Awards on Friday, November 1, to honor three faculty members’ distinguished contributions to research and entrepreneurship. Held at the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans and emceed by WWL-TV’s Meg Farris, the event celebrated faculty achievements in science, engineering, health, arts, humanities, and education, highlighting their impact on advancing knowledge, creativity, and societal well-being.
Dr. Kimberly Gramm, David & Marion Mussafer, Chief Innovation & Entrepreneurship Officer and leader of Tulane’s Innovation Institute, presented two key awards, reinforcing the Institute’s support for new ideas that may lead to solutions for global challenges. "I get to be at the nexus of science and impact where discoveries and innovations can change not only our city but our world,” she said, acknowledging the Tulane community’s collaborative efforts to propel impactful research.
The IP Innovator Award was presented to Dr. Lisa Morici and Dr. James McLachlan, whose innovative work in vaccine development and public health exemplifies the collective spirit of Tulane’s culture of innovation. This award recognizes faculty who advance patentable intellectual property with the potential for licensure or commercialization. The team was honored for their co-development of a biodefense vaccine now in human phase 1 clinical trials and an innovative adjuvant technology, T-vant, aimed at eliminating whooping cough. The team has established manufacturing partners and are currently seeking commercialization opportunities for their work.
With over 35 years of combined experience at Tulane, their mentorship has supported dozens of young innovators and elevated collaborative research across campus.
The Entrepreneurship Award was given to Dr. Tony Hu, a scientist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of four biotech startups, who exemplifies turning scientific discoveries into real-world solutions. Dr. Hu’s work in diagnostics and public health has been supported by organizations like the U.S. Department of Defense and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, reflecting his dedication to serving society through innovative technology. In his five years at Tulane, he has trained 82 fellows and students from 21 countries, published over 150 papers, and filed 25 patent applications, 14 of which have been licensed.
Dr. Gramm praised Dr. Hu for his contributions to the university and community, noting, “His work shows that innovation thrives where science meets entrepreneurship, and he has shown us what’s possible when one dreams beyond the lab.” Dr. Hu’s award highlights his role as a mentor, leader, and advocate for inspiring entrepreneurship within Tulane. Dr. Hu also serves as the Co-chair of the Tulane Innovation Institute’s Faculty Innovation Council.
The Tulane Innovation Institute proudly participated in these awards, which showcase Tulane University’s commitment to supporting research to drive positive change.
