Center for AD/ADRD Population Aging and Social Studies (CAPAS) Core B - Program Development (Pilots) Core

University Of Texas Hlth Science Center, San Antonio TX

Investigators

Abstract

Revised Abstract: The Program Development (Pilots) Core (Development core) of the San Antonio Center for AD/ADRD Population Aging and Social Studies (CAPAS) will support Center goals by providing infrastructure, scientific support, and funding for pilot projects by early-career scholars, and innovation projects by more established investigators. Through these, as well as targeted recruitment and networking activities, this core will contribute to increasing the number of researchers using a population and/or social science perspective on the causes and consequences of AD/ADRD among Hispanics, fostering additional integration with neuropsychology and biology. The specific aims of the core are: 1) To enhance the ability of new investigators to conduct population and/or social science research on Hispanic AD/ADRD using studies both in the U.S and internationally, by running joint pilot projects and mentoring programs. 2) To increase the capacity of more established investigators to lead innovations in population, social science research on Hispanic AD/ADRD, by supporting pilot projects that test novel concepts on Hispanic AD/ADRD longitudinal cohorts related to CAPAS themes. We will purposively recruit into our pipeline of pilot studies both emerging scholars and established investigators, soliciting applications from regional and national universities. Multidisciplinary teams will mentor our pipeline and emerging scholars for success in an independent research career. We will prioritize pilot projects that: 1) improve existing longitudinal cohorts for AD/ADRD research on Hispanics; 2) provide novel integrations of population and other social science approaches with neuropsychological and/or biological science; and 3) promote key aging-related topics that advance Hispanic ADRD research. We will provide close oversight to supported studies, from inception to completion to dissemination. Expected outcomes include presentations and publications on high-quality integrated research, external grant submissions, and career advancement. Annual program evaluation will ensure peak efficiency. CAPAS leaders have strong expertise, active projects, and networks in Center themes. They also lead or are deeply involved in NIA infrastructure programs like RCMAR, OAIC Pepper, and ADRC, all with established pilot study setups. While CAPAS is quite distinct in mission and goals, our experience will ensure the achievement of said goals.