Today@Sam Article
SHSU-COM Awarded Nearly $5 Million Federal Grant To Strengthen Biomedical Research And Education
Dec. 12, 2024
SHSU Media Contact: Mikah Boyd
By Brittany Foreman
The Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (SHSU-COM) is announcing a newly awarded $4,990,476, four-year Research and Development Infrastructure (RDI) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. This prestigious grant is part of the RDI program’s mission to invest in research infrastructure, faculty expertise and workforce development. SHSU-COM Dean, Thomas Mohr, DO, is the principal investigator (PI), with Vinoth Sittaramane, professor of neuroscience, serving as co-PI and program director.
“This grant underscores SHSU-COM’s dedication to advancing healthcare research and education while addressing critical workforce needs in Texas and beyond,” said Mohr. “It represents an exciting step forward in positioning SHSU-COM as a leader in biomedical research and applied sciences.”
The RDI program, open to Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), including Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), supports projects aimed at improving research productivity, enhancing graduate programs and building partnerships that increase external funding opportunities.
Thanks to the groundwork laid by former SHSU-COM faculty members Sanjeev Choudhary and Kevin Lord, the grant will support the college’s ability to pursue initiatives such as planning and developing an innovative master’s degree in Applied Biomedical Sciences. The program will be designed to address gaps in advanced scientific education and healthcare innovation, with a focus on equipping graduates to drive new biomedical discoveries and clinical applications.
“This grant will enhance SHSU’s research capacity, strengthen Texas’ healthcare pipeline and offer students unique opportunities to engage in critical research and public health projects,” said Sittaramane.
The timing of this grant aligns well with the growing demand for skilled professionals in the biomedical sciences. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare is the largest industry in Texas, projected to expand by 23.4% by 2030. The number of positions typically held by graduates of applied biomedical sciences master’s programs are expected to grow faster than the state and national averages, highlighting the critical need for well-trained professionals in roles such as clinical laboratory supervisors, healthcare administrators, pharmaceutical and forensic scientists, as well as positions in the rapidly advancing biomedical device industry.
Situated in East Texas, the program has significant potential to positively impact the community and contribute to the overall growth of the regional healthcare ecosystem. It aims to engage with healthcare institutions, industry partners and public health agencies to address emerging health needs across Texas and beyond.
“We are honored to receive this RDI grant, which strengthens our ability to develop cutting-edge solutions to pressing health challenges,” said Mohr. “This funding will allow us to train well-equipped healthcare professionals and researchers while contributing to the overall growth of the biomedical and healthcare sectors in Texas.”
With this funding, the college can attract and cultivate a new generation of scientific leaders, ready to drive innovation in healthcare, improve patient care and advance biomedical technology. Moreover, the degree program lays the groundwork for additional pathways into doctoral education, supporting long-term advancement in the field. SHSU-COM is excited to build on this momentum as it continues to fulfill its mission to increase healthcare access, particularly in rural and medically underserved areas of Texas.
For more information on the SHSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, please visit https://shsu.edu/com.
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