Networking and Mentoring Core

The overarching goal of the Networking and Mentoring Core (Core E) is to support activities intended to facilitate networking and mentoring for the awardees of the Aging and AD pilot projects, all of whom are invested in Artificial Intelligence (AI) approaches and technology for aging adults, including those with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (AD/ADRD). Networking includes all activities designed to bring together scientists/researchers, industrialists, venture capital firms, and the NIA Small Business Office, across disciplines and institutions, to develop approaches, technology, and/or research infrastructure. The function of the Networking and Mentoring Core is to provide the infrastructure and support so that the pilot awardees develop a network of mentors, peers, and potential collaborators to then catalyze the development of their AI approaches and technologies that can then be incorporated into products to improve the health, wellness, and safety of aging Americans and those with AD/ADRD. Because AI methods and technologies cut across multiple disciplines and industries, the opportunity to build large, collaborative networks is extraordinary. In addition, it has been well established that diversity drives innovation, thus, bringing together this rich, varied community of individuals interested in AI and technology will lead to the emergence of unique ideas and innovations. Not only will we foster collaborative and networking opportunities for this community, but also, we will create infrastructure and activities for mentoring the next generation of scientists and technologists focused on AI methods, tools, and technologies for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The Networking and Mentoring Core will be led by Dr. Marylyn Ritchie who has significant experience leading research support cores, institutional initiatives, and national collaborative network coordinating centers and workgroups. Furthermore, in her current role at the University of Pennsylvania, she leads a Center for Translational Bioinformatics, serves as Associate Director for the Penn Center for Precision Medicine, and serves as Associate Director for Bioinformatics in the Institute for Biomedical Informatics (where Dr. Jason Moore (MPI) is the Director). With these qualifications, she is well positioned to lead this core and leverage her local and national network to successfully execute the specific aims for this core.