LEARN ABOUT OUR

NETWORKING CORE

The TRIO Networking Core provides the necessary infrastructure and conduit to integrate the entire trainee peer network and their mentors into a dynamic cohort to enhance learning, collaboration and networking. The Networking Core fosters research collaborations through a community that enhances professional development activities by connecting them with our mentors across our network, fostering peer- and near-peer mentoring, offering joint learning opportunities, providing hands-on research experiences, and more.

Outreach and Exposure to KUH

The Networking Core has been involved with the R25 undergraduate students in programs at WF, Duke and UNC; each has an NIDDK-funded R25 program. These summer programs have been planned by Project Managers and the joint faculty of these programs, who also work with TRIO. The Networking Core plans opportunities and crossover activities for the cohorts. The TL1 trainees and early KUH faculty have opportunities for engagement and near-peer mentoring with these undergraduate students.

TRIO Trainee PODS

We have created 3 trainee PODS. Each POD is built to include 4 to 5 trainees that includes a mix of KUH, pre- and post-docs, and from different institutions. The 3 current PODS include all funded trainees. Additional trainees supported by other mechanisms who are doing KUH research under TRIO mentors will be included in PODS in the coming months, as will any new trainees who come into the TRIO fold via TL1 or other funding. PODS are led by 1-2 TRIO faculty members and serve as a platform for trainees to interact in smaller groups, facilitating connections among peers, and fostering the development of a close-knit community.

TRIO PODCASTS

The Networking Core hosts the NC TRIO podcast, moderated by Dr. Matthew Sparks, Networking Core Co-Lead, to highlight people, innovation, and scientific advances in KUH. Each episode aims to cover a topic that highlights a scientific advancement emanating directly from TRIO and that is impactful in the broader national and international KUH research space. The podcast features faculty and trainee stories and delve into how they engage within the KUH community and participate in research.

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EPISODE 1: INTRODUCTION

The inaugural podcast features a discussion with Dr. Keisha Gibson, a native of North Carolina and Networking Core Co-Lead, delving into her journey in the realms of medicine and science. Additionally, this episode served as an introduction to NC TRIO, examines its mission and delineates the objectives as part of the discussion.

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Episode 2: Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) with Dr Atala and Dr Miller

The second podcast showcases an interview with Dr. Anthony Atala, an overall TRIO Co-Project Lead, along with Dr. Brendyn Miller, a TRIO TL1-supported post-doctorate trainee. This episode features the Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) and discusses the multidisciplinary team, goals, and success of the Institute. The episode also shines a spotlight on a current trainee, showcasing their research endeavors and delving into the ways in which the NC TRIO program is positively impacting their work.

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EPISODE 3: HBCUs and NC TRIO Featuring Dr Tennille Presley

The third episode features Dr. Tennille Presley, Assistant Professor of Physics at Winston-Salem State University. This episode dives into how North Carolina schools focused on STEM are integral to the success of NC TRIO.

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"This is an exciting and innovative opportunity that brings trainees across different disciplines and institutions together to foster academic and professional development."
- Dr. Thomas Ortel -