Developmental Research Project Program

Abstract The Developmental Research Project Program (DRPP) will strengthen the biomedical research base in Nevada by developing faculty researchers and providing students with biomedical research experiences and training, enhancing Nevada’s healthcare and biomedical workforce. All eight of Nevada’s two- or four-year teaching colleges and universities are part of the DRPP network. Each institution is at different stage in research development with different interests, needs, and resources. Our goal is to develop the biomedical research base at all of these institutions. Thus, we have different specific aims that customize research development for each institution. In Aim 1, research faculty at institutions that are more advanced in research apply for Developmental Research Projects (DRP) that awards $75,000 per year for two years to help develop competitive research projects. In Aim 2, teaching faculty at outreach institutions apply for a Pilot Grant (PG) that awards up to $40,000 per year for one year to help develop a small research project that involves students. In Aim 3, outreach institutions can apply for a PUI Faculty Recruitment award to hire a research faculty who can apply for a DRP in Aim 1. In Aim 4, we develop a program that mentors the grant awardees above, and in Aim 5, we help grant awardees identify potential collaborations and additional resources to enhance their success. Ultimately, these aims will provide training and mentoring for those entering the workforce in biomedical fields and will improve the health of Nevadans.