Military Research Associate Program

kindbridge research MRAP program

The Miltary Research Associate Program (MRAP) is aimed at giving veterans access to critical resources, support and skills that aid academic performance and pursuits. Program participants gain vital skills including writing, research and data analysis, which ultimately help them connect with influencers and pursue graduate-level training and career advancement, which they would not have had access to otherwise.

This innovative new program has the broad intention of helping veterans transition from military service to advanced training in mental health treatment and research.

Program
Motivations

kindbridge research - Military Research Associate Program

In the US, there are very few highly trained veterans in labs working to improve gambling disorder and mental health outcomes and wait times for mental health treatment can last for months. At the same time, many veterans have the interest, skills, and work experience to enable them to add real value to this field and increase representation but lack guidance and access to specific training opportunities to do so.

Objectives

During year 1, each military research associate will:

1

Complete the MAP training curriculum,

2

Publish 1 academic paper in a peer-reviewed journal,

3

Present a poster or talk at 1 academic conference, and

4

Be admitted to one of their top choices for higher education.

Program Design

The MRAP training program has 3 components:

1

Skill Building

Academic writing, literature search and review, study design and execution etc.

2

Resume Building

Publishing peer-reviewed articles, delivering presentations, etc.

3

Application Mechanics

Prepare and sit for the GRE, application essays, interview coaching etc.

Program Successes

In the pilot year of the program, Mark Lucia joined KRI to develop the MRAP program and act as the pilot member in September 2021. KRI assisted with his school applications resulting in admission into 4 of his top choice schools – Columbia University, George Washington University, Boston University, and Johns Hopkins University.

In the summer of 2022, he began a dual degree MPH/MBA at Johns Hopkins University. Additionally, Mark conducted unique research on responsible gambling in DoD-operated facilities which was presented at an international conference in 2022 and published one peer-reviewed article with KRI staff. Most recently, Mark was recruited to join the National Council on Problem Gambling’s Military Committee.

“I originally came to Kindbridge to improve my chances of studying at a top public health university by participating in research and receiving coaching. I never expected to be given the opportunity to grow this idea into a military transition program for many to enjoy.

Since joining KRI, I have learned valuable skills in research, writing, program development, and planning. Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to present my work at conferences, publish papers, and meet many inspiring people along the way. I’m thankful to the Kindbridge team for their belief in me and this program and for their continued support throughout my journey.”

- Mark Lucia, Military Research Associate, Post-grad John Hopkins University

Become a Program Participant

Kindbridge Research Institute is dedicated to making a difference in the mental health and well-being of veterans through research, engagement and knowledge sharing. If you are interested in becoming a participant in the MRAP program, fill out the following contact form below and we will get in touch with you and provide application details.

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Make a difference in the health of Veterans

This innovative fund gets mental health services to over 200 veterans annually. We also have a scholarship that trains veterans to become recovery coaches for other veterans.

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