Project Summary – Research Development Core The overarching goal of the Research Development Core (RDC) of the UAB Nathan Shock Center (NSC) is to support impactful research in the basic biology of aging related to the NSC theme of “Comparative Energetics and Aging.” We will achieve this goal by addressing the following specific aims. 1. Maintain a nationally competitive pilot award program focused on the comparative biology of and energetics and aging to: a. Support expertly reviewed pilot studies. b. Provide an avenue to support earlier-phase studies via an expedited “exploratory studies” funding mechanism. c. Facilitate interactions between potential applicants and leaders of UAB NSC Research Cores. 2. Solicit applications locally and nationally through interaction with UAB partners and the NSC Coordinating Center, choose projects for funding, and monitor progress of projects: a. Oversee a rigorous review process for selection of funded projects. b. Monitor outcomes (publications and grants) of funded studies. 3. Support the education and development of junior investigators by: a. Developing and maintaining an interdisciplinary pool of scientific mentors committed to guiding junior investigators to independence in the field of the biology of aging. b. Organizing a journal club on Center-related topics; promoting nascent project meetings for brainstorming feedback, and networking; and offering a series of “boot camp” sessions (i.e., F to K, K to R, etc.). c. Facilitate junior investigator development as well as collaboration with other NSCs via development of a mock study section meeting open to junior investigators across the NSC network. d. Support conduct of the nationally advertised annual UAB integrated aging symposium. The RDC will capitalize upon the UAB NSC Research Cores as well as established collaborations with entities on the UAB campus and throughout the nation – including with other NSCs. The Core activities will support the continued development of outstanding science in the biology of energetics and aging with particular emphasis on developing the next generation of independent scientists.