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The Research Mentoring Academy

The Research Mentoring Academy is a collaboration between UT Health San Antonio's Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and the Office of the Vice President of Research.

Message from the Chair

Dr DiogenesResearch mentoring is a cornerstone of graduate education and faculty development. It enhances the biomedical research enterprise by fostering meaningful mentor-mentee relationships, strengthening the training of emerging scientists, and equipping faculty with the skills to guide their trainees toward academic and professional success. Effective mentoring directly translates into higher-quality science and the cultivation of the next generation of investigators, who will sustain a culture of excellence and mentorship essential to the future of biomedical discovery. The Research Mentoring Academy at UT San Antonio is dedicated to promoting a culture of effective, evidence-based mentoring across all research disciplines. Its mission is to advance research, education, and leadership development by empowering faculty and trainees with the knowledge, tools, and community support needed to engage in impactful and inclusive mentoring practices.

Anibal Diogenes, D.D.S., M.S., Ph.D.
Chair, Research Mentoring Academy
Professor and Chair, Department of Endodontics

Congratulations to Recent GSBS Graduate Mentors of the Year (2024 - 2025)

We are thrilled to announce the recipients of this year’s Graduate Mentor of the Year Award, an honor that recognizes exceptional faculty who go above and beyond in supporting the academic, professional, and personal development of their graduate students.

These outstanding mentors were selected by the Research Mentoring Academy, from a pool of 45 heartfelt GSBS graduate student nominations, representing 34 different faculty across our UT Health San Antonio community. Your thoughtful submissions highlighted the remarkable ways mentors are shaping your training experience through unwavering support, inspiring guidance, and a commitment to your success.

Drs. Gupta and Svatek were formally recognized at the GSBS Convocation Ceremony on Wednesday, August 20, 2025 in Holly Auditorium. They each received a plaque and a $500 check for this distinction.

Thank you to all who submitted nominations and helped spotlight the power of great mentorship. Read more about these mentors in the articles below.

Graduate
Mentor of the Year

Yogesh Gupta, Ph.D.

Department:
Biochemistry & Structural Biology

Graduate Student Nominator:

Abhay Kumar

Student Program:
Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering

Graduate
Mentor of the Year

Robert Svatek, M.D., M.S.C.I.

Department:
Urology

Graduate Student Nominator:

Shaun Trecarten

Student Program:
M.S. in Clinical Investigation and Translational Science