Southern Miss GTEC scholars presenting during a professional development program

Southern Miss

GTECScholars Program

Training the next generation of leaders in cardiovascular disease research and community-engaged health sciences along the Gulf Coast.

A two-year pathway from graduate study to research leadership.

Southern Miss GTEC is a competitive training opportunity designed to develop the next generation of leaders in cardiovascular disease research and community-engaged health sciences along the Gulf Coast.

Scholars receive mentorship, specialized training, and funding support to conduct impactful research addressing cardiovascular health disparities in Mississippi and beyond.

Knowledge. Skills. Networks. Impact.

GTEC strengthens graduate students’ research abilities and professional networks while fostering meaningful community partnerships.

  • Build knowledge and skills in cardiovascular and community-based research.
  • Enhance research capacity through mentorship and specialized training.
  • Promote community engagement and trust-based partnerships.
  • Foster professional development and career readiness.
Southern Miss GTEC scholars attending a classroom presentation
Partner collaboration

Support built around your success.

Living support

Stipends help offset living expenses while scholars participate in the program.

Travel awards

Support to present research at state and national conferences.

Housing benefits

Housing assistance supports the program’s in-residence requirements.

Research resources

Materials and supplies are provided to support program activities.

Graduate scholars taking part in a professional development event

Professional development

Is GTEC right for you?

Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Be a U.S. citizen.
  • Be accepted into a biomedical or health-related graduate program.
  • Be enrolled full-time in a graduate program by the designated program start date.
  • Demonstrate an interest in pursuing a career in cardiovascular disease research.
  • Commit to completing all requirements of the two-year program.

Two years of guided growth.

The GTEC experience combines intensive training, research production, mentorship, and community engagement.

Year 1

May–July

Attend orientation and a full-time, 10-week summer research intensive with enrolled courses while in residence at Southern Miss.

September–April

Participate in monthly virtual workshops and meetings while developing research products.

Year 2

May

Complete a one-week summer leadership training in residence and receive the Cardiovascular Epidemiology Research Digital Badge.

June–July

Present at the Mississippi Health Disparities Conference and participate in virtual mentorship activities.

September–April

Take part in community outreach events and monthly virtual meetings.

May

Attend the culmination event and receive an Academic Research Leadership transcripted and digital badge.

Program requirements

  • Attend and contribute meaningfully to all required activities.
  • Present research at state and national conferences.
  • Author or co-author original research, including manuscripts and oral or poster presentations.

Completing your application

The application fee is waived. Follow these steps carefully and review the “Read First” section before submitting.

Start your application
  1. Create an account or log in

    First-time users should register; returning users may use their existing credentials.

  2. Start a new application

    Read the “Read First” section thoroughly, then complete your personal background and academic history, including your school information.

  3. Enter enrollment information

    Select admission to a degree, certificate, or badge program. Choose “Cardiovascular Epidemiology Research Graduate Badge,” the Hattiesburg campus, and your intended semester and year.

  4. Upload required materials

    • 90-second “Why You?” YouTube video
    • Completed Southern Miss GTEC supplemental application
    • Résumé or CV
    • 300–500 word statement of purpose
  5. Review and submit

    Type your full legal name as your signature, correct any errors or missing information, and submit the application. Skip the payment process because the application fee is waived.

Southern Miss GTEC

Questions about the program?

gulfsouthcommunityhealth@usm.edu601-266-4384

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, MS 39406