Administrative Core

PROJECT SUMMARY (ADMINISTRATIVE CORE) The Administrative Core will lead SEA-TRAC and assume responsibility for strategic planning and operational management. Aim 1 is focused on enabling the conduct of the best TB science and the development of the next generation of TB research leaders. This will be accomplished in three subaims. First, we will define, implement, and continuously refine our strategic plan by regularly convening our multi-disciplinary leadership team and obtaining and implementing feedback from our user community and Internal and External Advisory Committees. Second, we will promote an environment to grow collaboration and respond to emerging needs. This will be accomplished through seminars, workshops, and conferences that bring our diverse community together to learn and foster dialogue that will lead to new collaborations and funding applications. Third, we will engage in inter-TRAC initiatives by working with the NIAID as well as bi-directional connections to the community by working with partners, such as Treatment Action Group, to increase public awareness of TB as a global health problem. In Aim 2, we will provide operational management that ensures ‘added value’ to our TB research enterprise. This will be accomplished in four subaims. First, we will manage TRAC Cores and Scientific Working Groups (SWGs) by continuously evaluating and redefining Core utilization and managing the pre- and post- award process for Developmental Project Awards. Second, we will ensure effective communication between the Leadership Group, TRAC Members, and Core Users to develop and promote services that add value to our research enterprise. We will also facilitate communication with NIAID as well as other TRACs. Third, we will facilitate increased funding and support for TRAC Members by continuing to advocate on their behalf for increased institutional commitments as well as working with external partners whose mission align with ours. Finally, we will manage TRAC finances and personnel by establishing and executing rigorous policies and procedures governing the allocation of funds, compliance monitoring, personnel management, and maintenance of TRAC Member and Core user databases. As described in the Overall Strategy, the Vision of SEA-TRAC is to facilitate a decrease in the global burden of TB through training and high-impact multi-disciplinary research. The Administrative Core will ensure strategic, effective, and efficient leadership to achieve this goal.