Core A: Administrative and Scientific Development Core

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The goal of the Center for Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Inflammatory Reponses (CMPHIR) is to establish a self-sustaining Center of Biomedical Research Excellence capable of addressing existing and emerging problems in infectious disease in a timely and clinically relevant fashion. At the heart of this effort is the assembly of a group of scientists who have research interests consistent with this scientific theme. Establishing and maintaining an independent scientific career is a challenging task, thus making it imperative that these investigators be provided with a strong support structure capable of meeting their administrative and technical needs. Addressing the administrative needs of its investigators is the sole focus of the CMPHIR Administrative and Scientific Development Core (Core A). To achieve this, Core A will provide CMPHIR investigators with an integrated and adaptive administrative infrastructure to help them effectively navigate the institutional environment and promote their overall faculty development (Aim 1), foster continued growth of the CMPHIR by administering a robust and pro-active Pilot Grant Program and targeted external recruitment focusing on investigators with research interests complimentary to existing CMPHIR investigators (Aim 2), and foster the development of collaborative and synergistic interactions among CMPHIR investigators and among CMPHIR investigators and other scientists on the host campus (Aim 3). Core A will rely on a seasoned administrative team that has been in place since the inception of the CMPHIR and the expert advice of an internal Steering Committee (SC) and an External Advisory Committee (EAC). The administrative team will also work closely with the directors of the Scientific/Technical Cores (Cores B, C, and D) to ensure effective utilization of Core resources on behalf of CMPHIR investigators and other scientists at UAMS. Thus, just as it did in Phases I and II, Core A will provide administrative support to ensure a seamless transition into Phase III and ultimately an equally seamless transition into a self-sustaining Center of Biomedical Research Excellence focusing on important problems in infectious disease.