Funding Futures: Dr. Lois James Empowers Students with Grant Writing Skills

Dr. Lois James

Dr. Lois James, internationally recognized for her research on sleep, bias, and performance in high-stress professions, is now equipping students with one of the most powerful tools in academia—grant writing.

As the newly appointed Director of the Sleep and Performance Research Center and an associate professor at the WSU College of Nursing, James brings over $6 million in grant success to the classroom. This fall, she will lead a course in grant writing that’s open to graduate students across the WSU system—not just those in nursing.

“Knowing how to write and win research funding opens doors,” James said. “Whether you’re in prevention science, psychology, health, or data analysis, these are transferable skills that can set you apart.”

Dr. James is known for her simulation-based work in implicit bias and fatigue management for police, nurses, and other public safety professionals. Her research has been featured in National Geographic, The Washington Post, and The New York Times, and she has received numerous awards for her impactful work.

The grant writing course, NURSSCI 534 – Research Seminar: Grant Development and Critique, will offer hands-on feedback, real-world examples, and a focus on building competitive proposals for federal and foundation funding sources.

This course is ideal for any student preparing for a research-intensive career—or simply hoping to build a competitive academic resume. It’s also a chance to learn from one of WSU’s most accomplished and engaging faculty members.