PROJECT ABSTRACT The K-INBRE network proposes a Developmental Research Project Program (DRPP) Core to stimulate research in biomedical research within the K-INBRE network via mentored, interdisciplinary research opportunities. The DRPP Core will execute and oversee three mentored training programs, including the Developmental Research Project Program (DRPP), the Summer PUI Research INvestigator Grant (SPRING) Pilot Projects, and the Postdoctoral Awards. All three funding mechanisms will promote the development of multidisciplinary research projects in the area of biomedical research, with the specific focus of 1) providing young faculty with the skills to acquire independent funding 2) aiding PUI faculty to grow research programs primarily in the summer, with the inclusion of undergraduate research opportunities, and 3) supporting promising postdoctoral fellows as they develop tools and skills to advance in their careers. The Program Coordinator will be the principal lead, providing oversight, feedback, and evaluation to all DRPP awardees. The DRPP awards support new faculty engaged in interdisciplinary developmental research projects and require 6 CYM effort. Faculty members will be identified and supported for a standalone project in collaboration with an engaged primary mentor selected for each awardee, and the DRPP Core will identify and evaluate milestones specific to each project. DRPP awards will be available at both non-PUIs and PUIs, and the inclusion of undergraduate research will be encouraged. Progress will be monitored closely by the DRPP Core Director in conjunction with the mentor, and funding for the 2nd year will be contingent upon adequate progress in the 1st year. DRPP awardees will be required to identify an IDeA collaborator, allowing them to develop team science and enhance their chances for additional funding through administrative supplements. The SPRING Pilot Projects is a new funding mechanism to stimulate research by PUI faculty during the summer months. Support will cover summer salary, research supplies, undergraduate students, or research technicians. Three CYM are required for SPRING grants. The Postdoctoral Awards partially support promising postdoctoral fellows at non-PUIs as they create an interdisciplinary research project and acquire leadership skills that will help promote their independence as new investigators. The DRPP Core will aid in pursuing additional funding and help investigators develop grant applications to all DRPP awardees from NIH and other federal funding sources. These awards provide financial support to laboratories, educate and ensure training in grant-writing skills, and ensure excellent mentoring during the critical step of developing research careers. The DRPP Core will seek to grow research programs in young faculty and faculty at K-INBRE PUI institutions to increase the number of students involved in research.