SPRNetwork is proud to introduce the 2026 Emerging Investigator (EI) Cohort, a group of promising researchers committed to improving the health and well-being of children and youth with special health care needs and their families.

The Emerging Investigator Guided Research Program is one of SPRNetwork’s flagship initiatives. Designed as a one-year, mentored, family-partnered research experience, the program supports early-career investigators as they develop innovative health systems research projects that address real-world challenges facing children with medical complexity and special health care needs. Each selected project receives funding and is guided by experienced mentors and family partners, ensuring that research remains grounded in the needs and priorities of the families it aims to serve.

Advancing Family-Partnered Research

A defining feature of the Emerging Investigator Program is its commitment to family engagement. Investigators work alongside family partners throughout the research process, helping to ensure that study questions, methods, and outcomes reflect the experiences of patients and caregivers. This collaborative approach has become a hallmark of SPRNetwork’s research culture and has contributed to meaningful, actionable findings across a wide range of topics.

Building on a Strong Legacy

Since its launch, the program has supported projects exploring issues such as health care disparities, social needs screening, medical home models, telemedicine, palliative care, caregiver decision-making, behavioral health integration, and community-based systems of care for children with medical complexity. Investigators from leading institutions across the country have participated in the program, producing research that informs care delivery and strengthens support for families.

Recent projects have examined topics including:

• Improving provider education to reduce health care disparities for children with disabilities.
• Addressing unmet social needs among children and youth with special health care needs.
• Identifying caregiver-defined components of effective medical homes.
• Understanding outcomes after critical illness for children with medical complexity.
• Expanding access to telemedicine and supportive care services.

Welcoming the 2026 Cohort

The newest cohort continues this tradition of innovation and collaboration. Through their projects, these emerging investigators will contribute fresh perspectives and evidence-based solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing children with special health care needs and their families.

Over the coming year, cohort members will work closely with mentors, family partners, and the broader SPRNetwork community as they refine research questions, conduct studies, and share findings that can improve care systems nationwide. Their work represents the next generation of family-centered health systems research and reflects SPRNetwork’s ongoing commitment to developing future leaders in the field.

Looking Ahead

As the 2026 Emerging Investigator Cohort begins its journey, SPRNetwork looks forward to following their progress and sharing updates on their projects and achievements. By investing in early-career researchers and fostering meaningful family partnerships, the Emerging Investigator Program continues to advance research that makes a tangible difference for children and families.

Please join us in congratulating the members of the 2026 Emerging Investigator Cohort and welcoming them to the SPRNetwork community.