Title: Research Editor
Department: News
Phone: 662-325-2137
Email:
Starkville native Jim Laird returned to his hometown in 2008. In his role as research editor for Mississippi State University, he promotes the land-grant institution's research and economic development activities via publications, social media, video, and other platforms. He also coordinates communication for the Office of the Vice President for Research and Economic Development, including website management, newsletter publication, and other special projects such as the Maroon Research blog and the annual Research Windows magazine.
As part of the University Relations team, he writes, edits, and distributes the MSU Daily News Digest weekday mornings, and also publishes Maroon MEMO - an online newsletter for MSU faculty and staff - every Monday morning.
For a decade, Laird was editor of the Jackson-based Mississippi Business Journal - the Magnolia State's only statewide business weekly publication. At the MBJ, his editorial writing won gold and silver awards from the Alliance of Area Business Publications. The Mississippi Press Association has also recognized his work.
A graduate of Starkville Academy, he holds a bachelor's degree in history from Mississippi College. Laird and his family live in Starkville, where they are members of the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection and active supporters of Starkville High School's tennis, swimming, and cross-country teams and Lady Jacket soccer team.
