MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Earlier today West Virginia clinical and Translational Science Institute pilot recipient and mentor James “Jim” Simpkins, Ph.D., was awarded the inaugural Clinical and Translational Research (CTR) Award at the National IDeA Symposium of Biomedical Research Excellence (NISBRE) in Washington D.C.
This national award was created to acknowledge the work of successful mentors who have given their time to guide and support junior clinical and translational investigators at active CTR programs. NISBRE meets once every two years to highlight the activities and successes of researchers working at institutes who are funded by the National Institute of General Medical Science Institutional Development Award.
Dr. Simpkins has displayed a true passion for the nurturing and development of junior investigators. During his time as a senior mentor, Dr. Simpkins has mentored 14 assistant professors on their way to becoming principal investigators on R01 or equivalent awards. Dr. Simpkins currently serves as the primary mentor for two WVCTSI Research Scholars, as well as serving as a mentoring team member for an additional WVCTSI scholar and three early stage clinician scientists. He also serves as professor and director of the Center for Basic Translational Stroke Research at West Virginia University.
“It’s an honor to be recognized in this way because I believe that mentoring the next generation of great scientific investigators is the responsibility of all scientists,” said Simpkins.
This dedication to the mentoring of junior investigators is deeply appreciated by WVCTSI director Sally Hodder, M.D., who nominated Dr. Simpkins for award consideration.
“Dr. Simpkins elevates the mentoring of junior investigators to a much higher level than would otherwise have occurred, and he proactively develops programs from which many future scientists will benefit,” said Hodder.
In addition to his mentoring work, Dr. Simpkins has been a successful researcher who has published over 400 articles in the areas of endocrinology, neuroendocrinology, stroke, aging, experimental therapeutics, neuroscience, and physiology. During his 39-year career he has secured more than $50 million in extramural funds.
-WVCTSI-
im 6/27/16
CONTACT:
Ian Moore
West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute
304.581.1781