The Network for Transformative Research (NTR), led by Jackson State University, in collaboration with the Mississippi Research Consortium, the American Indian Higher Education Consortium (AIHEC), the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU), and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for researchers to engage in a transformative effort aimed at building resilience to natural disasters in Mississippi.

Purpose of the Program:

This initiative is designed to leverage a diverse community of scholars to develop innovative research projects that address the challenges of natural disaster resilience. The primary goal is to apply research-proven strategies from the science of team science to foster interdisciplinary and inter-institutional collaboration, leading to groundbreaking research proposals. These proposals are intended to secure federal funding to address critical STEM challenges related to natural disasters. These include issues such as food insecurity and health challenges due to ecological issues and persistent economic marginalization. Faculty from ALL STEM disciplines are encouraged to participate.

Program Activities and Structure:

Selected participants will join a cohort of 16-20 researchers and will be involved in a structured program comprising the following key activities:

  1. Orientation and Q&A Session (September 2024):
    An initial online orientation will be held to introduce participants to the program’s objectives, the research collaboration process, and the expectations for the cohort.
  2. Initial Workshop (October 10-12, 2024 in Jackson, MS):
    This 2.5-day workshop will bring participants together in Jackson, MS, to engage in a structured collaboration process. The workshop is designed to stimulate the generation of research ideas and facilitate the formation of self-selected research teams. The focus will be on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative thinking.
  3. Research Development Period (October 2024 – May 2025):
    Following the initial workshop, participants will enter a “gestation” period during which they will collaborate within their self-identified sub-groups to develop their research ideas into full grant proposals. The entire cohort will reconvene periodically during this period to provide updates, share insights, and offer mutual support.
  4. Follow-up Workshops (January 2025 and May 2025):
    Two shorter workshops will be held in January and May 2025. These sessions are designed to refine the research proposals and prepare them for submission to funding agencies. Participants will receive guidance from established researchers and representatives from funding agencies throughout this process.

Program Support:

  • Travel and Lodging: All travel and lodging costs for the workshops will be covered by the grant.
  • Mentorship and Networking: Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experienced researchers and funding agency representatives, who will provide mentorship and facilitate the development of strong, competitive proposals.

Selection Criteria:

Participants will be selected based on the following criteria:

  • Research Promise: Demonstrated potential to contribute to innovative research in the field of natural disaster resilience.
  • Collaborative Ability: Willingness and ability to work effectively in diverse, interdisciplinary research teams.
  • Institutional Support: Evidence of institutional commitment to supporting the participant’s research interests and capacity building.
  • Interest in Natural Disaster Resilience: A clear interest in addressing issues related to resilience in Mississippi, particularly through interdisciplinary approaches.

Application Process:

To apply, interested individuals should submit a current CV and responses to five short essay prompts (200 words each). The application materials must be submitted by [Due Date] through the following webform: https://forms.gle/oPfoSPXjER1uY1g39.

This initiative represents an exceptional opportunity for researchers to contribute to a significant and timely area of study, while also enhancing their own research capabilities and expanding their professional networks.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Almesha L Campbell at almesha.l.campbell@jsums.edu.

We sincerely appreciate your support in helping us recruit talented researchers for this transformative project.