Dr. Ryan Marek Receives NIHL Loan Repayment Program Award

Dr. Ryan Marek Receives NIHL Loan Repayment Program Award

Ryan Marek, Ph.D., Associate Professor in Sam Houston State University’s Department of Psychology and Philosophy, has received a 2026–2028 National Institutes of Health Extramural Loan Repayment Program Award (NIH-LRP) in Clinical Research through the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

The NIH Loan Repayment Programs are designed to help recruit and retain doctoral-level professionals in biomedical and behavioral research careers. In exchange for a sustained commitment to research, the program may repay up to $100,000 in qualified educational debt over two years. By reducing the financial burden associated with training, the program allows researchers to devote more of their careers to advancing scientific knowledge and improving health outcomes.

Dr. Marek’s research focuses on behavioral and psychological factors affecting obesity, metabolic and bariatric surgery, and type 2 diabetes. His current work includes examining behavioral interventions that may help individuals manage chronic health conditions and achieve better long-term outcomes.

“I am incredibly honored to receive this award,” Marek said. “The award is especially meaningful because it represents NIH’s investment not only in my current research, but also in my long-term development as a clinical scientist. It gives me greater freedom to continue building a program of research focused on improving outcomes for people living with obesity and type 2 diabetes, while also creating meaningful research opportunities for our students at Sam Houston State.”