Research Mentoring Awardees

The Office of the Vice Provost for Research and Scholarship is pleased to announce the 2026 Research Mentoring Champion Awardees. Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations. See the awardees below.

 

Champion  School/College Department
Maria Alcaide, M.D.  Miller School of Medicine Infectious Diseases
Kara Cavuoto, M.D. Miller School of Medicine Ophthalmology
Daniel Feaster, Ph.D.  Miller School of Medicine  Public Health Sciences 
Ronald Jackson, III, Ph.D. School of Communication Communication Studies 
Cynthia Levy, M.D. Miller School of Medicine Medicine
Guillermo Prado, Ph.D.  School of Nursing & Health Studies  Nursing & Health Studies
Landolf Rhode-Barbarigos. Ph.D.  College of Engineering Civil & Architectural Engineering
Michal Toborek, M.D., Ph.D. Miller School of Medicine Biochemistry & Molecular Biology 

 

 

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  • Who are the Champions?

    This award recognizes faculty who are Champions - supporters and promoters of research mentoring – spokespersons for the value of research mentoring. They inspire others to become involved as research mentors themselves. Their influence motivates others to take up the cause – they have a significant impact on the success of the research mentoring enterprise.

    Champions raise awareness of the need for research mentoring and advocate for change. Those around them are inspired to make a difference and to become mentors themselves.

    Awardees received a commemorative plaque and the opportunity to attend the International Mentoring Association Biennial Conference in May 2026.

    Nominations were reviewed by OVPRS leadership and the Research Mentoring Task Force to confirm nominees were in good standing.

  • 2026 Research Mentoring Champion Award

    To be considered for the Research Mentoring Champion Award, nominees had to be trong advocates for research mentoring who actively promote its value and inspire others to serve as mentors. Champions raise awareness of the importance of research mentoring, motivate others to get involved, and have a meaningful impact on the success of the research mentoring enterprise. Through their influence and advocacy, they encourage positive change and foster a culture of mentorship. Faculty may not self-nominate.

    Eligibility:

    • Faculty member in good standing at the University
    • Minimum of 3 - 5 years of mentoring experience
    • Active involvement in mentoring upper level students, trainees, or early-career investigators in research

    Award: Awardees received a commemorative plaque and the opportunity to attend the International Mentoring Association Biennial Conference , May 13- 14, 2026 (Pre-Conference, May 12, 2026)

  • Nomination Materials

    No longer accepting nominations.

  • Review Criteria

    Nominations were evaluated based on:

    • Demonstrated Champion of research mentoring
    • Evidence of mentee success and career progression as 2nd generation mentors
    • Commitment to inclusive and equitable research mentoring practices
    • Contribution to a culture of research mentoring within the department, school, or institution
    • Innovation in research mentoring approaches or program development

     

    If you have any questions, please contact: Eva Olivares at eolivares@miami.edu.

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