Researchers’ Productive Summer Nets 77 Manuscripts in TRI Writing Challenge

Attendees check out the ice cream flavors at the celebration concluding the Summer 2022 Writing Challenge. — Attendees check out the ice cream flavors at the celebration concluding the TRI Summer 2022 Writing Challenge.

*TRI Director Laura James, M.D., with Zulema Udaondo, Ph.D., who won for Best Representation of Informatics Supported Research.*

UAMS-affiliated researchers who have received Translational Research Institute (TRI) support submitted 77 research manuscripts as part of the Summer 2022 Writing Challenge, TRI Director Laura James, M.D., announced at an Ice Cream Social celebration to recognize the contributing researchers.

Held jointly at UAMS campuses in Little Rock and Northwest Arkansas, the Thursday, Sept. 8 event featuring Loblolly Creamery ice cream included prizes in six categories and numerous door prizes.

“We are thrilled to have received so many manuscript submissions and nearly match our total of 85 a year ago,” James said. “This is a huge accomplishment, reflecting the dedication of our faculty to complete an important part of research, which is the dissemination of research findings. In particular, the enthusiasm of our junior faculty is noteworthy and reflects the energy and vibrancy of our early-stage researcher community.”

*Umesh Wankhade, Ph.D., won a dinner with TRI Director Laura James, M.D.*

Below are the winners announced at Thursday’s event:

Jennifer Andersen, Ph.D.
Astounding Apprentice Award: Most Submitted Manuscripts (seven) for the Rank of Assistant Professor/Instructor
Prize: TRI will pay for a manuscript submission fee

Chenghui Li, Ph.D.
Wise Wordsmith Award: Most Submitted Manuscripts (four) for the Rank of Associate Professor
Prize: Free statistical consultation

David Ussery, Ph.D.
Sage Scribe Award: Most Submitted Manuscripts (four) for the Rank of Professor
Prize: TRI will submit a manuscript

TRI Director Laura James, M.D., interacts with attendees in Northwest Arkansas.

Zulema Udaondo, Ph.D.
Best Representation of Informatics Supported Research
Prize: Wooden pen set

Melissa Zielinski, Ph.D.
Best Representation of Implementation Science
Prize: UAMS tumbler

Jennifer Andersen, Ph.D.
Most Reflective of Community Engagement and Partnerships
Prize: UAMS travel blanket

Reid Landes, Ph.D., enjoys the Loblolly ice cream offered at the event.

Umesh Wankhade, Ph.D., won a special door prize added this year, “A Delightful Dinner with the Director (James).”

The 77 total submissions included:

14 submissions from Professors
16 submissions from Associate Professors
37 submissions from Assistant Professors
10 submissions from staff/others.