Fellows Grant Award Project

The Society of Science Advocates Program, dedicated support to advance student engagement in research and competitive STEM opportunities awarded ATSU-KCOM's Dr. Miriyala with a $3,000 stipend intended to expand student access to high-quality research experiences and to strengthen mentorship pathways that guide learners through research and competition processes. Her selection recognizes a sustained commitment to empowering students, fostering curiosity in science and cultivating the next generation of researchers and innovators. The funding will enable Dr. Miriyala to mentor additional students—targeting at least three to five mentees during the upcoming cycle—helping them develop research skills, design and execute projects, and navigate presentation and competition venues. Through these efforts, the program aims to increase the number of trainees pursuing research, broadening exposure to STEM disciplines and building a pipeline of capable, motivated students ready to contribute to scientific advancement and health professions. Dr. Miriyala’s role as an advocate positions her to integrate hands-on research opportunities with structured guidance on scholarship and competitive processes, ensuring students gain both practical laboratory or scholarly experience and the soft skills required for dissemination and professional growth. By leveraging the stipend, she can support student project resources, provide mentorship time, and create opportunities for students to present their work externally, enhancing their academic profiles and confidence in pursuing research careers. This initiative aligns with ATSU’s educational mission emphasizing scholarship, community health, interprofessional education, diversity and support for underserved populations. Ultimately, this supported work aims to nurture enthusiasm for STEM fields, increase student participation in research and contribute to the cultivation of future clinicians, scientists and health professionals who will advance patient care and scientific knowledge.