Admin Core

Abstract Cancer is a pressing public health challenge in the United States, demanding innovative solutions and effective therapies. Research is pivotal in addressing this challenge, driving novel ideas and approaches. The renewal of COBRE to Phase 3 will enable the core to continue its mission of strengthening cancer research capacity and infrastructure in Oklahoma, contributing significantly to the ongoing battle against this disease. In Phase 3, building upon the successes of Phases 1 and 2, Dr. Danny Dhanasekaran, the director of Phases 1 and 2, will continue to lead the Phase 3 Administrative Core. This core will provide comprehensive administrative and fiscal support to the two research cores funded by COBRE. Moreover, it will oversee the management of the Pilot Project Program (PPP) for Phase 3, fostering innovative cancer research initiatives. Dr. Priyabrata Mukherjee, who directed the mentoring module in Phase 2 COBRE, will coordinate PPP activities in close collaboration with Dr. Dhanasekaran. The COBRE Coordinator, Ms. Barbara Turek, along with the Staff Assistant, Ms. Alisha Booth, will assist Dr. Dhanasekaran in this endeavor. Drawing from her experience in Phase 2, Ms. Barbara Turek will ensure strict adherence to the administrative and fiscal policies of COBRE and federal funding agencies, including NIH. She will engage in regular meetings with Core Directors and Pilot Project Leaders (PPLs), providing support for the effective management of sponsored research grants. The Administrative Core will maintain its crucial role in organizing Advisory Committee (AC) meetings, facilitating travel arrangements, and overseeing AC activities. Ms. Alisha Booth, as the Administrative Assistant, will oversee these responsibilities under Dr. Dhanasekaran's guidance. Additionally, the Administrative Core will maintain transparency and compliance by submitting progress reports to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS). Ultimately, the Administrative Core's central role lies in streamlining operations to support COBRE researchers, the Research Cores, and advancing cancer research in Oklahoma.