SOT provides the opportunity for scientists from developing countries to participate in a unique scientific exchange experience with another toxicology laboratory through the Global Senior Scholar Exchange Program (GSSEP). Wafa Hassen, 2016 Global Scholar, said, “GSSEP was one the greatest scientific adventure I ever had. GSSEP was a tremendous opportunity to network with scientists in different disciplines during the SOT Annual Meeting but also along my visits to the different research institutions (Duke, NIEHS, NTP, EPA, FDA, NCI, NIH). Furthermore, I learned about ways to build up and support collaborations between research institutions in the US and Tunisia.” The deadline for applications is June 15.
From left to right: Weimin Gao, Oladipo Ademuyiwa, Mohamed Abou-Donia, and Wafa Hassen were the 2016 recipients. Awards were presented by SOT Councilor Aaron Barchowsky.
Mid-career to senior toxicologists at academic institutions in developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Central/South America are eligible (see full list of eligible countries on the SOT website). The goal is to increase toxicology capacity internationally by providing professional opportunities for scientists through relationships supported by SOT. The Scholars will attend the 2017 SOT Annual Meeting and spend up to four weeks with a Host in a successful toxicology program with a strong track record of research, training, publication, and outreach. Scholars are expected to work with the Host to build on this opportunity in strengthening toxicology within their universities and countries.
After selection of two Scholars, applications will be received from potential Hosts with interests matching those of the selected Scholars. The deadline for Host applications is September 15. 2016. The program provides up to $15,000 for each pair, with up to $10,000 travel support for the Scholar and $5,000 for the Host. Support however is not provided for equipment, laboratory supplies, or renovations to current facilities.
The 2016 Scholars have recently completed their time at the Host institutions. Mohamed Abou-Donia, Duke University Medical Center, hosted Wafa Hassen from the High Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir, Tunisia. Weimin Gao, Texas Tech University, hosted Oladipo Ademuyiwa, from the Federal University of Agriculture in Abeokuta, Nigeria. The pairs have developed plans to continue collaboration and the Host will be traveling to the Scholar institutions in the near future.