New knowledge sparks the development of new methods of treatment and prevention. But the pathway from “bench to bedside” is complex; it involves many players – researchers, educators, clinicians, and many more – and it is hugely expensive. Keeping an effective research, educational, and clinical operation, like that in the MUSC Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, running smoothly is challenging. Although research funding from federal agencies, industry, and foundations is invaluable, additional support from philanthropy can make all the difference. It can provide critical support that may be unavailable from any other source, such as pilot funding for young investigators, so that they become prepared to compete for federal grant funds; scholarships for young faculty, so they can pursue highly specialized educational opportunities; support for senior mentors, so they can devote the time to nourish young researchers; and long-term endowed support for senior investigators, an investment in their work that can benefit future generations of families in need.
