Research Education Component

The main objective of the Research Education Component at the AD-RCMAR is to identify, train, and mentor a diverse and outstanding group of scientists. Our research scientists will serve as future leaders for research advances in social and behavioral aspects of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, with a focus on aging Hispanics/Latinos and other minorities.

In support of innovative pilot research projects, the Research Education Component:

• Promotes new investigators to assist with scientific research projects
• Paves the way for subsequent applications to the National Institute on Aging (NIH) for research support or further career development
• Identifies, engages, and provides high-quality scientific research training
• Enhances scientific research skills for independent researchers to be dedicated to studying Alzheimer’s disease among minority populations

Didactic

The main objective of the Didactic portion of the Research Education Component is to provide investigators with opportunities to increase knowledge and skills to advance social, behavioral, and biomedical minority aging research. Several strategies are implemented:

• Seminar Lectures
• Journal Clubs
• Courses
• Training/Research Experiences

These methods promote and enhance the knowledge and skills of the investigators so they are up-to-date with current information about Alzheimer’s Disease. Our investigators will utilize their previous knowledge and skills to be more connected with the strategic goals of the Rio Grande Valley Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Center.

Program Contacts

Dr. Michael Mahaney
Email: michael.mahaney@utrgv.edu

Claudia Alaniz
AD-RCMAR Project Coordinator
Email: claudia.alaniz01@utrgv.edu

Mentoring

The purpose of the Mentoring Program is to provide guidance and support to early and new investigators who are running pilot projects with the support of the Center. Our approach to mentoring includes technical and content-expert along with guidance in career advancement, grant applications, publications, dissemination and life-balance, and personal development.

Pa’lante is the aspect of mentoring that is designed and offered as an option to those investigators wanting to include Hispanic values (personalismo, respeto, solidaridad, familismo) as part of their mentoring experience. Pa’lante hermanas is the version of the program for women.

Pilot Studies Program (PSP)

The primary purpose of the Pilot Studies Program is to guide and assist new or early-career investigators with opportunities, support, and guidance to conduct pilot studies aligned with the mission of the Center. Our investigators will generate significant results contributing to the field and providing preliminary results and data that will expand the need for Alzheimer’s disease research.

To be eligible for the Pilot Studies Program, applicants must have completed a terminal research degree (i.e., medical residency, Ph.D., or equivalent). They also cannot have successfully competed for an NIH independent investigator-initiated research award in the field of Alzheimer’s Disease.

For more information, visit the Pilot Studies Program page.

Program Contacts

Dr. Michael Mahaney
Pilot Studies Program Coordinator
Email: michael.mahaney@utrgv.edu

Claudia Alaniz
AD-RCMAR Project Coordinator
Email: claudia.alaniz01@utrgv.edu