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Columbia International University Launches New Biomedical Sciences Program

Students conducting biomedical research in a lab setting

News Summary

Columbia International University (CIU) has been awarded a $328,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to develop its Biomedical Sciences program. Led by Professor Dr. Jeong-Ho Kim, the program aims to tackle metabolic disorders such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer through innovative research. This NIH funding will enhance research opportunities for undergraduate students, emphasizing hands-on learning and collaboration in the field of biomedical research.

Columbia, South Carolina – Columbia International University (CIU) has made a significant stride in the field of biomedical research with its new Biomedical Sciences program, recently awarded a $328,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This prestigious funding, directed towards research on metabolic disorders, will support investigations led by CIU Biomedical Sciences Professor Dr. Jeong-Ho Kim and his students.

The focus of this research will be on developing treatments for conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer. By exploring the underlying cellular biological processes associated with these metabolic disorders, the research aims to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies currently available to patients. One of the significant aspects of this project is enhancing the understanding of glucose homeostasis in human subjects, especially in pathological cases such as hyperglycemia and increased glycolysis in tumors.

The grant awarded to CIU is part of the NIH’s Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) program, which is specifically designed to foster biomedical research within schools and provide vital research opportunities for undergraduate students. CIU stands out as the only private, Christian university in the Southeast to receive an NIH AREA grant in 2024, highlighting the recognition of its emerging research capabilities.

The NIH grant application process is highly competitive and rigorous, involving intensive peer reviews and evaluations by experts in the scientific community. This ensures that only innovative and impactful research projects receive funding. The grant will not only help advance scientific knowledge but also contribute to enhancing the biomedical research environment at CIU.

Dr. Kim, who assumed a faculty position at CIU in the fall of this year, is committed to developing the research skills of undergraduate students. Under his leadership, the summer research program at CIU offers intensive training in Cell and Molecular Biology, equipping students with hands-on experience in scientific inquiry. Participants involved in this program will have the opportunity to present their findings at both national and international conferences, allowing them to expand their professional networks and engage with the broader scientific community.

The significant funding provided by the NIH grant will cover the costs for all participants in the summer research program, ensuring that students are able to fully immerse themselves in their research projects without financial barriers. Dr. Kim’s past academic experience as a professor and assistant professor at various universities brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the program, further enriching the learning environment for students.

Columbia International University emphasizes the importance of research as part of its educational mission, underscoring the institution’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge while providing students with valuable opportunities for hands-on learning. The NIH grant serves as a stepping stone for Dr. Kim and his team, enabling them to explore critical health issues affecting communities worldwide.

In conclusion, the NIH’s generous grant to CIU exemplifies a significant commitment to fostering research and education in the biomedical field. Through collaborative efforts between faculty and students, the research conducted will not only aim to address pressing health issues but also enhance the academic landscape within the university, paving the way for future innovations in medical research.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

USC Breaks Ground on New Health Sciences Campus in Columbia
USC Begins Construction on New School of Medicine in Columbia
SCbio Initiates Life Sciences Accelerator Program to Boost Biomedical Startups in South Carolina

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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.

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