Columbia International University Secures $328,000 NIH Grant for Biomedical Research Initiatives

Columbia, SC Welcomes Exciting Research Grant for Biomedical Sciences!

Hey there, Columbia! It’s an exciting time for our local university, as Columbia International University (CIU) has snagged a hefty research grant from none other than the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This $328,000 grant is set to fuel some groundbreaking research in the field of Biomedical Sciences, and it’s all thanks to CIU Professor Dr. Jeong-Ho Kim and his enthusiastic students.

What’s the Buzz?

Dr. Kim—a passionate researcher who just joined CIU’s Biomedical Sciences program this fall—will lead a three-year project focused on finding better ways to help doctors treat trickier health battles such as diabetes, obesity, and even cancer. Sounds important, right? The research aims to peel back the layers of our cellular processes to better understand these conditions and improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. Talk about impactful work!

The NIH is known for its stringent application process. In fact, only the most innovative and promising research proposals earn a thumbs-up. Dr. Kim’s application successfully went through intense peer review by scientific experts, making this award even more significant! And here’s a little nugget of info for you: CIU is currently the only private Christian institution in the Southeast to receive an NIH AREA grant in 2024. How awesome is that?

What Does This Mean?

So, what does all this fancy talk mean for us everyday folks? Well, for starters, Dr. Kim’s work focuses on improving the understanding of how our bodies maintain proper sugar levels—especially when things go haywire, like in the case of hyperglycemia in diabetics or the remarkable increase in glucose metabolism seen in many cancers. In simpler terms, he aims to dig deeper into diseases that millions face daily, potentially paving the way for better treatments that could make life a whole lot easier for those affected.

More Than Just Research

But that’s not all, folks! Dr. Kim isn’t just conducting research in his lab; he’s also committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists! His summer research program immerses undergraduate students in the intricate world of Cell and Molecular Biology. Students will get hands-on experience with real scientific research, present their findings at national and international conferences, and, most importantly, build networks that could be beneficial for their future careers. It’s like a bridge connecting academic dreams to reality, all thanks to support from this generous NIH grant!

Meet Dr. Kim!

Dr. Kim isn’t new to the world of academia, either. Before making his home at CIU, he taught at Liberty University and held various positions in other respected programs across the country, including The George Washington University and The University of Southern Mississippi. His extensive background in the field is sure to be an asset for CIU’s growing Biomedical Sciences program.

Excitement in the Air

There’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air here at CIU! In Dr. Kim’s own words, “I am very grateful to continue my teaching and research journey at CIU, which actively promotes research as one of its missions.” With initiatives like this, CIU is not just shaping the future of education but also making waves in the crucial area of health science.

So, Columbia friends, keep your eyes open for more updates from CIU—we can’t wait to see how this research unfolds and brings new possibilities to our community and beyond!