For Kristin Eckel-Mahan, PhD, a faculty member at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, teaching is about more than sharing knowledge. She is known for creating an environment where students feel challenged, supported, and empowered to grow.

To honor Eckel-Mahan for her approach to teaching and mentorship, graduate school students selected her as the recipient of the 2026 John P. McGovern Award for Outstanding Teaching.

Eckel-Mahan is the director of the Molecular and Translational Biology Program at UT MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School.

A mentor, advocate, and community builder

While presenting Eckel-Mahan with the award during May’s commencement ceremony, Graduate Student Association treasurer and Genetics and Epigenetics student Mackenzie Wienke described her as a mentor whose influence extends well beyond the classroom and laboratory. Wienke shared comments from students who praised Eckel-Mahan’s ability to balance encouragement with rigor, her commitment to student success, and her dedication to building a collaborative and engaged community within her program.

“What I appreciate most is that she listens carefully, takes student ideas seriously, and follows through with genuine support,” one student shared.

“Her mentorship strikes a rare balance between encouragement and rigor to help us both grow intellectually and professionally,” shared another.

Teaching through curiosity and connection

During her acceptance remarks, Eckel-Mahan reflected on the significance of being recognized by students.

“This is an extraordinary honor, and I’m genuinely humbled to receive the John P. McGovern Outstanding Teaching Award—especially because it comes from the students. That alone makes it one of the most meaningful recognitions I could ever hope for.”

Eckel-Mahan emphasized the collaborative nature of teaching and the excitement students bring to the classroom.

“I don’t walk into the classroom imagining that I have all the answers. What I do walk in with is excitement because I know I get to spend time with some of the brightest, most motivated, and most curious students anywhere.”

She described the most rewarding moments in teaching as seeing students make meaningful connections in their understanding of science.

“One of the best parts of my job is watching a student’s expression change in real time—that moment when a concept clicks. Those moments are why I teach. They’re the spark that keeps me coming back to the classroom again and again.”

Advancing research and encouraging the next generation of scientists

Eckel-Mahan’s research focuses on circadian biology and how the body’s internal clocks influence brain function, metabolism, aging, and disease. Her lab studies how disruptions to circadian rhythms can contribute to metabolic imbalance and other health conditions, with research aimed at understanding how biological clocks affect both the brain and peripheral organs.

Addressing graduates, Eckel-Mahan encouraged students to continue exploring new ideas and challenging assumptions throughout their careers.

“As you move forward into your careers—whether in research, medicine, industry, or any of the many paths open to you—I hope you continue to ask questions, to explore, to challenge assumptions, and to find joy in discovery.”

Celebrating the McGovern award

Established in 1983, the John P. McGovern Award for Outstanding Teaching honors faculty members who demonstrate excellence in teaching, accessibility to students, and dedication to fostering independent thinking. Recipients are selected through student nominations and voting.

The graduate school community invites everyone to congratulate Eckel-Mahan and recognize her continued dedication to student education and scientific discovery.