MDPI’s Open Access Insights: Connecting with Authors at the Kidney Cancer Association Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, USA

Dr. Andy Tran (left) and Dr. Zach Churcher (right) representing for MDPI Canada at the KCA Conference in Kentucky

MDPI recently played a pivotal role in the inaugural meeting of the Kidney Cancer Association’s (KCA) Mentorship Academy, which took place on 6 November 2024, in Louisville, Kentucky, USA, ahead of the 2024 IKCS: North America meeting. Located in the Omni Louisville hotel, this event brought together six mentees, each considered a rising star in kidney cancer research and clinical practice, along with a distinguished group of mentors, to launch a year-long program designed to shape the next generation of kidney cancer experts. The mentorship program aims to provide mentees with guidance, support, and networking opportunities to foster their careers in research, clinical trials, and advocacy.

A highlight of the conference was the session led by MDPI’s own Dr. Zach Churcher and Dr. Andy Tran, as pictured. Dr. Churcher and Dr. Tran shared their expertise on the processes involved in publishing essential and groundbreaking research such as that on kidney cancer in open access journals, emphasizing the strategies they have used to increase the visibility and impact of their work. The session underscored the importance of open access publishing as a tool for quickly disseminating research across the globe, enabling greater collaboration within and the progression of the kidney cancer research community.

Additionally, their session covered the specifics of the academic publishing process within the open access space, emphasizing MDPI's thorough and efficient model, and providing insights into the complexities of publishing in academic journals. Their presentation was interactive, prompting valuable discussions which we are sure made a lasting impression on the attendees. The presentation was praised by other attendees


Dr. Zach Churcher presenting on behalf of MDPI for Kidney Cancer Association	Dr. Andy Tran presenting on behalf of MDPI for Kidney Cancer Association

Dr. Andy Tran showcasing support with KCA promotional props

Dr. Zach Churcher showcasing support with KCA promotional props

as setting the tone for the rest of the session and effectively and seamlessly guiding attendees through the academic publishing process. Many of the scholars present also spoke highly of their personal experiences publishing with MDPI. One scholar shared with the group that their most impactful work was a 45-page review article submitted to MDPI’s Cancers journal. They emphasized that MDPI provided them with the freedom to publish their extensive work without the restrictions often imposed by other publishers. They concluded by emphasizing that their experience with MDPI was seamless and efficient, and benefited from stellar communication throughout.

MDPI’s participation in this event is a testament to our company’s commitment to supporting the development of emerging researchers. By providing training on the publishing process and offering valuable resources for authors, MDPI is empowering the next generation of kidney cancer researchers to share their groundbreaking work with the world. The knowledge shared during this session will undoubtedly help these mentees to succeed in their academic careers and contribute to the continued advancement of kidney cancer research.

As the KCA Mentorship Academy progresses, MDPI’s ongoing involvement will play a critical role in shaping the future of kidney cancer research and clinical care. With continued mentorship and support, these mentees will gain the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to become leaders in their field, advancing research, improving patient outcomes, and driving innovation in kidney cancer treatment.

To conclude, the inaugural meeting of the KCA Mentorship Academy highlighted MDPI's significant contribution to the advancement of kidney cancer research and the development of the next generation of clinical experts. Through insightful authorship training sessions and interactive discussions, MDPI not only facilitated the dissemination of key publishing strategies but also reinforced the importance of open access publishing in promoting global collaboration and accelerating research. The positive feedback we received from participants further underscores MDPI’s role in empowering researchers to contribute meaningful advancements to their fields. As the Kidney Cancer Association continues its research-based initiatives, MDPI’s ongoing support and expertise will undoubtedly remain a valuable resource for all involved in shaping the future of kidney cancer research. We want to say a special thank you to Dr. Zach Churcher and Dr. Andy Tran for proudly representing MDPI at this year’s Kidney Cancer Association’s author conference. An additional heartfelt thank you also goes out to all of the speakers, presenters, and attendees who made this conference a success.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at toronto@mdpi.com if you are based in North America and are interested in holding an author training session with MDPI.