The purpose of the Boston Nutrition Obesity Research Center (BNORC) Pilot and Feasibility (P&F) Program is to foster the development of significant and innovative and nutrition related research among the trainees and faculty at medical and scientific institutions in the greater Boston area. The goal of the present program is to provide Pilot and Feasibility funds to foster the research careers of trainees and faculty specifically targeting early career scientists (including senior post-doctoral fellows) from under-represented minority groups. Process of evaluation: BNORC P&F award process involves rigorous peer review in two phases. Letters of intent are solicited by a Call for Applications. The goal is to provide research funding to new investigators without current or past independent research support (e.g., NIH RO1 for early career scientists including senior post-doctoral fellows) from under-represented minority groups. After an initial review, applicants who meet eligibility criteria and whose proposal are judged to have scientific merit are invited to submit a full proposal for one year of funding. Scientific review of Pilot and Feasibility applications is conducted by a Scientific Review Committee that includes all members of the BNORC Executive Committee and selected other senior investigator members of BNORC as well as outside investigators with relevant expertise. The Center has also convened a P&F subcommittee that assists in the final deliberation for review of LOI and full applications. For individuals selected to receive funding, Dr. Greenberg, Director of the Pilot and Feasibility program will work with the individual to select mentors who are senior members of BNORC to assist, support, and provide guidance as appropriate for success.