Developmental Research Project Core

University Of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg MS

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Modified Project Summary/Abstract Section In this renewal application, the MS INBRE will leverage extensive experience and successes within the unique landscape of higher education in Mississippi to significantly increase the number of competitive biomedical investigators at primarily undergraduate institutions (PUIs) and enhance the overall biomedical infrastructure in Mississippi. The MS INBRE’s scientific themes focus on poor health outcomes in Mississippi – namely, cancer, infectious diseases, and obesity. The Developmental Research Project Core (DRPC) for the MS INBRE is designed to grow the human capital within biomedical research enterprises in MS through supporting investigators at partner PUIs by assisting with recruitment of outstanding junior faculty to PUIs, training students in biomedical research, and providing opportunities for professional development. In particular, we will facilitate engagement in research at PUIs via working with leadership to release faculty from teaching, create or renovate laboratory space, purchase and maintain equipment, and procure research supplies. Support through the DRPC has led to extramural funding, such as an R15 to Millsaps College, and numerous PUI peer-reviewed publications. This program will specifically address these challenges/opportunities through the following three specific aims: 1) Fund Project Development Grants (PDGs) and Research Initiation Grants (RIGs) to support biomedical research and maximize student participation in research; 2) Provide Recruitment Funds to promote the hire of accomplished, research-active junior faculty to PUIs; and 3) Provide venues for building an academic community focused on excellence in research and professional development opportunities to PUI investigators. Our experience during the previous funding period has shown that such an approach will lead to increased biomedical research at PUIs, recruitment of more research-focused PUI faculty, and provide additional direct hands-on research experiences for undergraduate students. These activities will also enhance STEM courses with research components that will positively impact students for many years to come.