Administrative core

Project Summary (Core 1, Administrative Core, Sil) Our goal is to establish a vibrant and productive Coccidioidomycosis Collaboration Research Center (CCRC) entitled Molecules and Pathways at the Coccidioides Host-Pathogen Interface. We are bringing together a cadre of basic scientists, clinical investigators, and technologists who will interrogate the pathogenesis of Coccidioides and the nuances of the host response in model systems, in chronic coccidiomycosis, and in coccidioidal meningitis. Taken together, we will provide insights that will bridge gaps in diagnostics, therapeutics, and potentially vaccine design for coccidioidomycosis. The Administrative Core is key to integrating the findings of each project, fostering synergy between our groups, and recruiting junior investigators to the coccidioidomycosis field via the mentored Developmental Research Program initiative. We will provide scientific, organizational, and administrative leadership as well as financial oversight. Scientific progress will be fostered and evaluated by extensive review of data at quarterly meetings attended by all of the CCRC members. In addition, we will have an annual in-person meeting for all participants. All investigators affiliated with each project and core will evaluate the scientific progress of each group and give constructive feedback that will support trainee development while fostering scientific excellence. Additionally, if this CCRC is funded, we will establish an external scientific advisory board (SAB) comprised of experts in basic mycology, microbiology, immunology of fungi, infectious disease, and host response. Thus we expect a unique synergy between all elements of this proposal that will allow us to support both seasoned and junior investigators in the Coccidioides field and make novel and critical contributions to diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to combat coccidioidomycosis.