Two faculty members receive competitive grants from the National Institutes of Health
Jamie Wallen (right) works with a chemistry student
By Cam Adams
Two Western Carolina University faculty members have received coveted R15 grants from the National Institutes of Health, which will significantly enhance research initiatives in the region.
Jamie Wallen, associate professor of chemistry and associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, was awarded an R15 grant totaling $377,693, and Brian Byrd, WCU mosquito expert and professor of environmental health, received a grant worth $458,992.
R15 grants, known as Research Enhancement Awards, are highly competitive and designed to bolster small-scale research projects at educational institutions that produce a significant number of the nation’s research scientists but have historically received limited NIH funding.
Brian Byrd (center) works with students on mosquito surveillance
As a co-principal investigator, alongside principal investigator Caitlin McMahon from the University of North Carolina Asheville, Wallen will utilize this funding to advance his research on protein structure determination. Specifically, the grant will support the investigation of a sugar-binding protein, lectin, from a pathogenic bacterium and its interaction with its preferred sugar substrate.
“I am thrilled to receive this support from the NIH,” Wallen said. “The funding will allow us to conduct crucial research that could lead to the development of novel inhibitors, potentially preventing infections by this human pathogen. This research not only furthers our understanding of microbial infections, but also provides a valuable opportunity for undergraduate students to engage in hands-on research during the summers of 2024 and 2025.”
Of the total award, $63,836 is designated for WCU, which will be allocated for essential equipment, research supplies, and undergraduate research funding.
Byrd received his grant along with Stephanie Richards from East Carolina University. Their research aims to study the social and economic impacts of La Crosse encephalitis, a mosquito-borne illness primarily affecting children in Western North Carolina. This research is critical, as the disease can lead to long-lasting social and behavioral effects among affected populations.
“This grant provides us with the resources necessary to dive deeper into the implications of La Crosse encephalitis in our community,” Byrd said. “Understanding the socio-economic effects of this disease is vital for developing effective public health strategies and interventions.”
The award includes $144,182 specifically earmarked for undergraduate research support at WCU, underscoring the university’s commitment to fostering student involvement in impactful research.
