University of New Mexico (UNM) Center for Brain Recovery and Repair

University Of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr, Albuquerque NM

Investigators

Abstract

SUMMARY The Center for Brain Recovery and Repair brings together basic scientists and clinical investigators studying acquired brain injuries including stroke or traumatic brain injury. Acquired brain injuries are leading causes of mortality in New Mexico and the additional burden of long-term disability in brain injury survivors is immense. During Phases 1 & 2, we brought together established faculty and outside experts to help mentor new recruits and faculty from departments across campus and develop a comprehensive, interdisciplinary brain injury research program. We renovated existing space and led the construction of new space to provide a physical home for the Center. Investigators from different disciplines can now interact and take advantage of state-of-the-art equipment that was not available elsewhere at the institution, or anywhere in the state. We have nurtured a culture of inclusiveness and cooperation with other cores and programs to maximize the return on investment of extramural and institutional investments and to build a robust user base. The Center’s institutional impact has been amplified by the success of the Center’s faculty, the independent programs they have established, and the programmatic efforts that have benefitted from the Center’s resources and support. During Phase 3 we will build on these successes by continuing to expand the critical mass of investigators working in topics related to acquired brain injury and support career development of investigators from diverse programs across campus. An enhanced pilot program will support the Center’s Phase 3 goals by expanding the critical mass of users, supporting extramural funding growth and the impact of the Center on the research culture in different departments and programs. We will continue to support two research cores (Preclinical and Clinical) that have outstanding institutional reputations. We will continue to strengthen the cores’ user bases and fiscal sustainability and also maintain the role of the cores in leading training and innovation, for both new and established investigators across campus. As in previous phases, extensive interaction and collaboration between preclinical and clinical researchers will continue to be a hallmark of the Center, with interdisciplinary seminars, workshops and events focused on cross-disciplinary interaction. Our Phase 3 approaches will focus on maintaining the position of the Center as a model for research capacity building and core resource management for the institution. With strong partnership from institutional leadership, we will focus on enhanced cost recovery for core services, increased institutional support and long-term efforts towards state and federal support. Together, these approaches will further establish the institutional reputation of the Center as an exemplary place to establish and sustain research careers, contribute to significant impact on the field of brain injury research, and ensure long-term sustainability of the Center after COBRE support.