The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing is proud to announce that Linda Kim, PhD, MSN, RN, PHN, CPHQ, CGNC, associate professor and director for the Center for Global Nursing and Health, has been awarded a highly competitive National Institute of Mental Health R01 Grant. This five-year award will support her project titled “SARS-CoV-2 and Social Determinants of Health Impact on Inflammation Associated Depression Risk (SSIDR).”
“This award reflects Dr. Kim’s dedication to advancing our understanding of mental health in the context of both biological and social influences,” said Dean Eun-Ok Im, PhD, MPH, RN, CNS, FAAN. “Her work will provide valuable insights that can help guide future strategies for prevention and care, particularly for communities disproportionately affected by the pandemic.”
Kim said her previous research has primarily utilized survey-based and implementation science methodologies to examine multi-level factors—spanning system, team and individual levels—that influence patient safety and health care worker outcomes, including burnout and overall wellbeing. While these studies have provided valuable insights, she said she recognized the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and the evolving nature of scientific inquiry. By shifting her focus to the emerging field of metabolomics, this new study builds on her prior work in health services research and promises to broaden the scope and impact of her investigations.
“This recognition marks a pivotal moment in shaping the next phase of my research and academic career,” Kim said. “This recognition not only affirms the scientific merit of my work but also provides the resources and platform to expand my investigations into the biological and social drivers of mental health disparities. It also enables me to build interdisciplinary collaborations, mentor emerging scholars and contribute to the development of evidence-based interventions that promote mental health equity. Ultimately, this grant strengthens my long-term vision of advancing global nursing and health through research that bridges science, policy and community engagement.”