Nevada IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE)

Project Summary This supplemental proposal through the Nevada INBRE is designed to consolidate the data science cores supported through IDeA Programs at the University of Nevada, Reno and expand their services and operating structure to provide campus-wide statistical and computational support. The Nevada INBRE established a Bioinformatics Core that transitioned to a university core and primarily supports computational resources for genomics and proteomics and molecular biosciences. The INBRE also developed a Data Science core to promote awareness and education and networking for increasing the integration of data science into UNR’s research initiatives. These cores are complemented by cores for Computational Modeling and Analysis and Virtual and Augmented Reality Interaction established through UNR’s COBRE for Integrative Neuroscience, which are being merged into a single Bridge to Research in AI and Neurocomputing (BRAIN) Core. The focus of the COBRE cores has been on supporting researchers in neuroscience and machine learning applications. The aim of this supplemental proposal is to consolidate the statistical and computational resources and services housed within the Bioinformatics, Data Science, and Brain Cores, as part of establishing a larger Center for Statistical and Computational Modeling (CSCM) at UNR. The center will become the hub for a greatly-expanded infrastructure for statistical research support organized around different tiers of services for users, from basic data analysis to expert-based collaborations in biomedical and broader research, and to provide accessible on-ramping for integrating AI and machine learning tools into the research programs of investigators. The center structure is designed to dramatically increase the efficiency and impact of the data science cores while also developing a new business model to increase sustainability of the services.