Simon J. Rhodes, PhD
Sidney H. Ingbar Distinguished Service Award
Simon J. Rhodes, PhD, was appointed as the provost and vice president for academic affairs at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Fla. in 2019. Over the last 15 years, Rhodes has reached trainees and early-career investigators around the world and given special attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Rhodes has been engaged in the Endocrine Society’s Future Leaders Advancing Research in Endocrinology (FLARE) program since its inception and served as a program presenter and mentor for eight years. He was also co-chair of the Endocrine Society’s Trainee and Career Development Core Committee and a member of the Minority Affairs Committee. He currently serves on the Society’s Finance & Audit Committee and the Global Leadership Academy Planning & Advisory Task Force.
How has the Endocrine Society supported your professional development/career journey?
I am grateful to the Society for providing so many opportunities to meet other scientists and physicians to discuss science and career development. One of the great strengths of the Society is that it brings basic science, clinical science, policy, and patient service together in true synergy. That magical mix has enabled me to meet collaborators, to translate basic science to the clinic, and to provide forums for my students and trainees to present their work.
As a Laureate Award recipient, do you have any advice for those just beginning their careers?
Get involved in the Society: attend meetings and volunteer for service. The network you build will improve your science, your service to patients, and your career. Realize that the Society is a true partnership between the staff and the membership, so getting to know the Society staff is equally important.