Opportunities

Mississippi consistently ranks among the unhealthiest states in the U.S., particularly concerning chronic diseases. Despite these challenges, Mississippi has made strides in certain health areas. The state has seen a decline in opioid overdose deaths, and Mississippi continues to lead the nation in childhood vaccination rates. While some progress has been made, much more work needs to be done. Therefore, the MCCTR will support 1-year pilot projects on C&T, community-engaged, and population health research on major chronic diseases impacting Mississippians. Key considerations in awarding support to project investigators will be (1) the scientific rigor of the application, (2) the likelihood of attracting extramural funding, (3) evidence of a path toward an independent research career for the applicant, and (4) the probability that the research program would lead to improved health outcomes. The center is funded by the IDeA Program Infrastructure for Clinical and Translational Research grant through the National Institute of General Medical Sciences under the award number U54GM115428.

The Mississippi Center for Clinical Translation and Research is currently preparing for the 11th Annual Mentor Academy. The Mentor Academy is designed to develop the mentoring skills of MCCTR-funded investigators, young investigators, and faculty members who wish to serve as mentors for MCCTR investigators. Eligible applicants include faculty members and young investigators from colleges and universities in Mississippi. The academy consists of six sessions (1-2 hours each) covering topics such as effective communication, aligning expectations, assessing understanding, fostering trainees' independence, and promoting professional development. Faculty with established mentoring and funding track records will serve as facilitators for each topic. Success will be determined by two outcomes: 1) participants will be able to articulate their approach to mentoring at the conclusion of the sessions; and 2) participants will complete a survey that will serve as an assessment tool to evaluate program efficacy.