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WIMS Rising Star Award

The Rising Star Award acknowledges faculty at the University of Kansas Medical Center who have achieved significant accomplishments early in their careers.

Eligibility

Faculty at the level of assistant professor or equivalent, in a basic science or clinical science department at the University of Kansas Medical Center, and in good standing are eligible. Two awards will be given - one to a scientist and one to a clinician.

The candidate must exhibit evidence of:

  • Success as a role model for faculty, non-faculty, trainees and students
  • Leadership at the university, regional, national or international level (e.g., development of clinic work, manuscripts, committees)
  • Effort to influence or institute a positive cultural change regarding the careers of faculty, non-faculty and staff members on the KU Medical Center campus
  • A steadfast commitment to enhanced collaboration and productive relationships with faculty and staff at all levels of the medical center

Nomination Process

The call for nominations is sent out each spring. All required materials must be submitted via the 2026 REDCap Nomination form. The submission deadline for applications is 5:00pm on Friday, May 29, 2026. Award recipients will be announced at the August WIMS Annual Event.

Contact Julianna Kinney with questions. 

Required Nomination Materials

To self-nominate or to nominate a deserving colleague, please submit the following required information via the 2026 REDCap Nomination form:

  • Nomination letter focusing on the applicant's clinical, educational, research and administrative responsibilities and goals (as they are applicable). Please limit the letter to one page or less. Nomination letter may be written by nominee or nominator.
  • Nominee's current curriculum vitae (SOM applicants: FACT SOM CV format required)
  • One letter of support. May be from the department chair or division director, mentor, etc. Should include evidence of leadership and competence at our institution based on the above criteria. The most effective letters will address each criterion specifically.
Medical researcher in lab with scientific implements

Nominations are now open!

History

The Rising Star award was established in 2014 for early-career faculty, at the level of assistant professor or equivalent (basic science or clinical positions), in the KU School of Medicine. Honorees are recognized annually at the WIMS Awards Event in August.