Alteration and Renovation

Abstract One mission of NH-INBRE is to increase the amount, sophistication and impact of biomedical research at institutions of higher learning in New Hampshire. A key step in accomplishing this is to expand modern laboratory space at our PUI Partners. Prior renovation funding has done that and the current proposal again has that goal. In the inaugural phase of NH-INBRE the funding for alterations and renovations was used to create two dedicated research laboratories at PUI Partner institutions. This was very successful, as the labs have been used by what have become two of our most active NH-INBRE investigators, as well as the large cadre of student researchers they have included in their research efforts over the past 14 years. Building upon this successful model the renovations funded in our first competing renewal were used to further expand research space for the growing research- engaged faculty at 3 PUI Partners during the second INBRE award period. We now propose to create and upgrade more lab space at two PUI Partner institutions. As was the case with previous renovations, the labs that the proposed alterations and renovations will create are essential for investigators at these Partners to have sufficient space to pursue research and meet the increasing demand for research experiences coming from undergraduates. Plans were developed and selected in an open, competitive process that included donated time and effort from Dartmouth Facilities Office current and previous personnel and experienced professional contractors. Partners receiving renovation support significantly cost-share needed funding. When completed, the proposed renovations will increase the number of faculty members who can be active investigators and increase the number of student researchers with these faculty mentors, as well as an increase the research capabilities and resources at these NH-INBRE Partner institutions. On a broader scale, expanded research labs will make significant contributions to the development of a vibrant and visible research culture at these Partners.