Research Capacity Core

Texas Southern University, Houston TX

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Research Capacity Core (RCC) The Research Infrastructure Core (RIC) of the Center for Biomedical and Health Research (CBMHR), established during the previous funding cycle (U54MD007605), has achieved remarkable success in advancing biomedical research at Texas Southern University (TSU) and its partnering institutions. Its efforts have catalyzed a dramatic increase in grant funding and fostered collaborations that extend TSU’s impact beyond its campus. These efforts have led to significant scholarly output and heightened TSU’s reputation as a research institution. However, despite these achievements, critical gaps remain, preventing TSU from fully realizing its potential as a competitive leader in securing large-scale research grants. Building on the accomplishments and lessons learned from the RIC, we propose the establishment of the CBMHR Research Capacity Core (RCC), designed to provide enhanced, specialized support for TSU researchers and external collaborators, particularly early-stage investigators (ESIs). This next-generation RCC will not only continue the foundational support initiated by the RIC but will also greatly expand TSU’s current biomedical research capacity through three innovative aims: 1. Enhancing Computational and Data-Driven Analysis: By integrating advanced computational tools and artificial intelligence (AI), the RCC will empower investigators to undertake cutting-edge health research, enabling transformative advancements in study design and analysis. 2. Streamlining Behavioral and Clinical Research Resources: The RCC will create cohesive infrastructure and expertise tailored to the behavioral and clinical research needs of TSU investigators and their collaborators, a novel approach among historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). 3. Establishing the Research Studio Program (RSP): This pioneering program will accelerate the success of young investigators, ESIs, and pilot project awardees by offering targeted mentorship, resource access, and research development support. The RCC represents a bold step forward, combining innovative programming with a strategic focus on variations in health outcomes. By fostering an environment of excellence and collaboration, the RCC will position TSU to secure more competitive research grants and address critical challenges in community health. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the missions of both the NIH and TSU, ultimately improving health outcomes for various populations and advancing scientific discovery at the intersection of biomedical, behavioral and clinical sciences.