7. Project Summary: LAC The Leadership and Administrative Core (LAC) will ensure the UM-OAIC provides support for training the next generation of scientists pursuing research careers in aging, and the conducting of novel research directed by the UM-OAIC goals of: 1) advancing an understanding of the mechanisms by which exercise, activity-based, and multi-modal rehabilitation interventions directed at specific functional impairments affect multiple body systems underlying functional performance and enable functional recovery; 2) developing and testing interventions to restore function and minimize disability following acute disabling events and gradual declines related to serious chronic diseases; and 3) preparing junior investigators and more established investigators new to the field of aging to advance research that promotes health and independence in older adults with disabling conditions. The LAC combines the skills of three leaders (MPIs): 1) Jay Magaziner, PhD, MSHyg, an epidemiologist and gerontologist, who directs the campus-wide UM Center for Research on Aging (administrative/contact MPI): 2) Leslie Katzel, MD, PhD, a geriatrician scientist and director of the Baltimore VAMC GRECC (MPI for medical direction); and 3) Alice Ryan, PhD, an exercise physiologist who works between laboratory and clinical research (MPI for mechanistic research). These leaders will guide multidisciplinary investigators in an integrated program that builds on the sciences and therapeutic applications of exercise, physical activity, and rehabilitation. The LAC receives advice on operations, resource allocation, progress, and strategies for expanding aging research at University of Maryland Baltimore (UMB) from an External Advisory Board of national leaders in aging research; an Internal Advisory Board of research and administrative leaders at UMB not part of the UM-OAIC; and a Community Advisory Board of community members interested in the well-being of older persons. A Research and Education Advisory Panel advises LAC, Pilot and Exploratory Studies Core (PESC), and Research Education Core (REC) leaders on UM-OAIC’s research training activities, and reviews pilot and development projects and faculty scholars. Internal and External DSMBs review data quality, patient safety, and ethical conduct of research. The LAC receives outstanding intellectual and financial support from UMB to achieve UM-OAIC research and research training goals. The LAC fosters ongoing discussion among core leaders and faculty scholars to ensure research and training are done in a cohesive, coordinated and integrated manner. The LAC also engages scientists from across UMB so that research and research training can take full advantage of the breadth and depth of experience and resources available. The LAC aims include: enriching the cadre of translational scientists pursuing aging research; advancing the careers of junior faculty to become independent investigators; developing resources to s...