Training Opportunities

MCCTR Faculty Exchange and Training Program (FETP)

“Mini-Sabbaticals” and Visiting Research Scholars

Extended exchange visits between MCCTR investigators and researchers at other leading research institutions will facilitate development of common protocols and multicenter studies that include larger and more diverse populations, enhance the quality and scope of clinical and translational research in Mississippi, and strengthen extramural funding applications.

Mini-Sabbaticals. The FETP will provide funding for “mini-sabbaticals” of MCCTR investigators to visit other institutions and learn new methods and skills, or to develop collaborations and grant proposals. To apply for this funding, please complete a 1-page proposal that describes the specific goals and justification of the visit to another institution, along with a letter from the department chair indicating approval. These proposals will be reviewed by the Professional Development Core and approved by the Steering Committee. There is no specific time limit on these visits, but they are generally expected to last for 1-2 weeks. If the expected cost of the visit exceeds $5,000, the department chair of the faculty member must agree to pay the additional cost.

Visiting Scholars. A second component of the FETP is the opportunity for MCCTR investigators to invite visiting scholars from other institutions to Mississippi to learn new research methods/skills and develop synergistic collaborations. Requests and approvals will follow the same procedures as requests for a “mini sabbatical”. Travel costs and a consultant fees for the invited investigator will be paid by the MCCTR up to a total cost of $5,000 with any additional costs paid by the investigator’s department.