Research Mentoring 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.
Nominees and awardees will be highlighted at the Research Mentoring Summit on March 23, 2026 (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM). All awardees, along with their nominators, Chair, and Dean, will be invited to attend.

Awardees will receive a commemorative plaque and the opportunity to attend the International Mentoring Association Biennial Conference in May 2026.
Nominations will be reviewed by OVPRS leadership and the Research Mentoring Task Force to confirm nominees are in good standing.

To submit a nomination, please upload your nomination via InfoReady: https://miami.infoready4.com/#freeformCompetitionDetail/2006222

To be considered for the Research Mentoring Champion Award, nominees must be strong 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 will receive a commemorative plaque and the opportunity to attend the International Mentoring Association Biennial Conference , May 13- 14, 2026 (Pre-Conference, May 12, 2026)

1. Nomination Letter (max. 1 page)
   • Describes the nominee’s research mentoring philosophy and approach
   • Highlights specific examples of Championing research mentoring
   • Describes the impact of the nominee’s mentoring on mentees’ academic, research, and career development as 2nd generation mentors
2. CV/Biosketch
   • Highlights research mentoring roles, trainee supervision, and research training activities
   • Includes evidence of mentee outcomes (publications, grants, awards, career placements, 2nd generation mentors)
3. Other Supporting Documentation (optional)
   • List of mentees and their accomplishments as 2nd generation mentors
   • Participation in formal research mentoring programs
   • Development of research mentoring initiatives, programs, or resources

Nominations will be 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.