Core D: Research Experience and Training Coordination Core (RETCC)

ABSTRACT: RESEARCH EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING COORDINATION CORE (RETCC) The UNC-SRP Research Experience and Training Coordination Core (RETCC) at the University of North Carolina Superfund Research Program offers an exceptional cross-disciplinary training experience. It aims to nurture a community of emerging scientists equipping them with research skills and translational training to address the pressing issue of inorganic arsenic (iAs) contamination in North Carolina's water sources. Beyond this, the RETCC places a strong emphasis on improving public health through effective science communication, advocacy, and the development of solutions to reduce iAs exposure. Aligned with the UNC-SRP's mission, the RETCC provides trainees with opportunities to delve into the sources of iAs, strategies for exposure reduction, the impact of iAs on various metabolic dysfunction phenotypes, and methods for disease prevention. These learning objectives are firmly grounded in the scientific themes of the UNC-SRP, which are oriented toward solution-driven research to safeguard vulnerable populations. The primary goal of the RETCC is to train individuals in the integration of knowledge, methods, and expertise from diverse disciplines. This cross- disciplinary approach aims to inspire novel scientific concepts and solutions through collaboration with individuals from various backgrounds and experiences. This is achieved through four specific aims: (1): Recruit and select a diverse cohort of trainees who engage in cross-fertilization by integrating knowledge gained in biomedical research, environmental sciences, engineering, and public health. (2): Augment professional growth and development of UNC-SRP trainees through innovative training opportunities, leadership development, and fostering networking. (3): Enhance trainee development of skills in community engagement and research translation through outreach opportunities and partnership with the community engagement core (CEC) and the Research Translation Coordinator (RTC). (4): Build data management and analysis skills by partnering with the data management and analysis core (DMAC). In this renewal, we anticipate 38 trainees, including four post- docs. The RETCC's activities are closely aligned with the UNC-SRP's mission “Protecting vulnerable populations from arsenic-induced metabolic dysfunction with a vision for exposure reduction and disease prevention.” The program equips trainees with essential knowledge and skills, fostering collaboration across scientific disciplines, and ensuring that future scientific advancements are accessible and beneficial to all.