Project Summary The CEP provides seed funding for early-stage investigators whose research addresses important objectives in kidney cancer. The goal of the CEP is to attract talented, typically early-career, investigators with novel ideas and/or experimental approaches in translational kidney cancer research. The CEP is led by an energetic leadership team who represent the spectrum of academic experience, have complementary research expertise, and offer diverse perspectives. They include a clinical pathologist, Dr. Kapur, Professor of Pathology and Director of Genitourinary Pathology; a molecular biologist, Dr. Zhang, Associate Professor of Pathology; and a cell biologist, Dr. Conacci-Sorrell, Assistant Professor of Cell Biology. Dr. Conacci-Sorrell, a previous CEP recipient, is a member of an underrepresented minority (URM) group and a role model. The CEP is committed to recruiting and training the next generation of researchers who are focused on translational kidney cancer research, with an emphasis on attracting women and URMs. The CEP partners with the Office of Faculty Diversity and Development and the Office of Women’s Careers to recruit women and URM faculty. CEP proposals are solicited by Core A via campus-wide email. Submitted proposals are reviewed by at least 4 reviewers, including members of the SPORE leadership, IAB/EAB, and other UTSW faculty with relevant expertise. Criteria for selection include significance, innovation, approach, investigator qualifications (and mentorship), and translational potential. The highest-scoring proposals are funded following approval by the SPORE Executive Committee. The CEP will assist awardees by: (a) providing preferential access to all SPORE Cores, (b) assigning mentors, (c) formulating a career development plan that includes relevant career development workshops, seminars, and educational courses, (d) assisting in identifying other funding sources and putting together competitive applications, and (e) providing forums for brainstorming and synergy. Metrics of success include presentations at scientific meetings, successful competition for independent grant support, publication of original research studies, and promotion through the academic ranks. Enabling an expansion of the CEP/DRP, SPORE funding is complemented by funds from the Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center (SCCC) and UTSW, which provide $400,000/year in direct costs. The CEP plans to award 3 to 6 projects per year. The CEP will accomplish its mission through the following Aims. Aim 1. Promoting translational kidney cancer research by recruiting and supporting junior faculty. Aim 2. Attracting seasoned investigators to refocus their expertise on kidney cancer. Aim 3. Promoting diversity by recruiting women and underrepresented minorities. Aim 4. Mentoring new investigators in the kidney cancer field through traditional and innovative mechanisms. Illustrating our commitment to supporting an exceptional CEP and highlighting our successfu...