Strategic Statement for Research Program
Our strategic focus at the Division of Research within the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience at Saint Louis University is to advance mental health initiatives with a particular emphasis on suicide prevention and intervention while addressing relevant mental health issues. Our mission is guided by three interconnected pillars, research, teaching, and service.
Research
- Secure grants and philanthropic donations to fund innovative research projects focused on suicide prevention/intervention and other pertinent mental health issues.
- Conduct research on implementation and quality improvement strategies to enhance the effectiveness of mental health interventions.
- Publish high-impact peer-reviewed articles (in Q1 journals), present findings at national or international conferences, and contribute to book chapters to disseminate knowledge and advance the field.
- Establish an inventory of ongoing and future research projects
- Identify research partners and build collaborative networks
- Organize or facilitate annual research showcases or seminars
Teaching and Mentoring
- Supervise and mentor medical students and residents, providing them with comprehensive training in the latest evidence-based practices in psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience
- Nurture early-career researchers by providing mentorship, resources and opportunities for professional growth, fostering a new generation of leaders in mental health research
Service
- Actively participate in university-level committees to advocate for mental health initiatives and integrate mental health principles into institutional policies and programs
- Engage with the community through outreach programs, partnerships with local organizations, and knowledge dissemination efforts to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues
- Develop and implement life-span suicide prevention programs as a long-term goal, addressing the continuum of care from childhood to older adulthood
Through a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach, we strive to make significant contributions to the field of psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience, ultimately improving the lives of individuals affected by mental health challenges, with a primary focus on suicide prevention and intervention.