Research Opportunities in Immokalee

The Isabel Collier Read Medical Campus in Immokalee, Florida, offers a unique environment for medical and health-related research focused on underserved and rural populations. Students interested in gaining hands-on experience in community-based research are encouraged to explore opportunities available through this campus. Student housing is available, making it convenient for students to live and work in the community during their research experience.

 

Each year, medical students participate in research at the Immokalee campus through the Summer Research Fellowship Program, which provides structured mentorship and support for student-led research projects. In addition to summer opportunities, there are also research experiences available during years 2 and 3, particularly for students who complete required and/or elective rotations at the Immokalee campus. These opportunities allow students to integrate research with their clinical training in a meaningful and impactful way.

 

Below are current research opportunities available at the Immokalee campus:

Childhood Trauma and Resilience in Underserved Communities

This opportunity focuses on research related to childhood trauma, toxic stress, and resilience in rural and underserved populations. Students may engage in projects involving:

  • Development and evaluation of trauma-informed care practices
  • Community-based interventions for children and families
  • Culturally responsive health education and outreach

Faculty Mentors: Javier Rosado, PhD (javier.rosado@med.fsu.edu) & Lisandra Torres-Aponte (lisandra.torres@med.fsu.edu)

 

Culturally Appropriate Behavioral Health Research

This research opportunity centers on culturally appropriate care and practices with multicultural populations, particularly Haitian Creole-speaking immigrant communities in the U.S. Areas of focus include:

  • Adaptation and validation of behavioral health screening tools
  • Cultural-specific behavioral health responses to trauma and adversity
  • Clinical health psychology in primary care settings

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jean K. Mesidor (jean.mesidor@med.fsu.edu)

 

Geriatric Health and Clinical Practice Innovation

This opportunity involves research with geriatric populations in Southwest Florida, with a focus on:

  • Aging and chronic disease management
  • Development of clinical practices across healthcare settings
  • Evidence-based approaches to geriatric care

Faculty Mentor:
Dr. Michael Gloth (michael.gloth@med.fsu.edu)