Each year, the Systems & Policy Research Network‘s Emerging Investigator (EI) Guided Research Program welcomes up to three projects focused on health systems research for children and youth with special health care needs. The yearlong partnership with the Emerging Investigators provides funding and mentorship and helps build the foundation for family partnership in research.

In 2025, the following Emerging Investigators began their work with the network:

• Elizabeth Avery Hill, Utah University
  • Project Title: Exploring the Meaning of Dignity for Children with Medical Complexity: Perspectives from Caregivers and Youth with Medical Complexity
• Hannah Lonsdale, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt
  • Project Title: Who, How Often, and Why? Quantification and exploration of delayed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Discharge in Preterm Infants
• Margaret Rush, Children’s National Hospital
  • Project Title: Project Caregiver self-efficacy surrounding the hospital discharge process for children with medical complexity and new technology dependence

The SPRNetwork is excited to see the Emerging Investigators launch these important projects and will provide more information about them throughout the year.

Learn more

Applications for next year’s Emerging Investigators cycle open in spring 2026. Learn more about the program and the application process at https://sprnetwork.org/emerging-investigator-program/.