Vermont Biomedical Research Network-Vermont INBRE

University Of Vermont & St Agric College, Burlington VT

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY- OVERALL The mission of the Vermont Biomedical Research Network (VBRN) is to build and sustain biomedical research infrastructure in the state of Vermont. Our state-wide network includes the University of Vermont, Middlebury College, Saint Michael’s College, Vermont State University, Landmark College, and the Vermont Community College system. To execute our mission, we support mentored faculty development, train Principally Undergraduate Institutions (PUI) undergraduates in research and build research infrastructure through the modernization of research instrumentation. VBRN is not associated with a unitary scientific theme or focus. Instead, it supports research in health and behavior, broadly defined. Over the duration of the program, VBRN has provided substantial research awards to PUI faculty, catalyzing the genesis of their research programs and creating vibrant training environments for their students. In addition, we have made substantial investments in state-of-the-art research instrumentation at both the lead institution and the PUIs, which in turn has stimulated the development of a robust internship program for PUI students. These students now have access to summer research opportunities in UVM research labs, our Core Facilities, and at local biotech companies. During the previous cycle, present and formally VBRN funded PUI investigators brought in more than six million dollars in new federal funding, while VBRN cores contributed to the capture of more than 60 million dollars of federal funding to lead institution PIs. VBRN awarded fellowships to more than 169 undergraduates to carry out research and supported the science education of more than 1000 students. The number of publications generated increased over the previous cycle. Some 89% of our students are working in STEM fields (employed or in graduate program). The Specific Aims outlined for INBRE 5 will advance the mission of the program and put in place new initiatives to support our PUI institutions, their faculty, and their students. Our Aims are: (1) develop a faculty-based research faculty (2) offer a multicomponent undergraduate training program that includes experiential learning, traditional mentored research, and core facility/industry internship experiences; and (3) support the PUIs culture of research by strengthening biomedical research infrastructure and research administration support, including regulatory and compliance expertise. Implementation of these Aims is principally guided by our Administrative Core, with the additional participation of Data Science and Proteomics in providing PUI faculty state-of-the-art research support.