PROJECT SUMMARY The Administrative Core of the UTRGV Diversity Center for Genome Research is designed to provide the administrative support required for the Center to enhance institutional genomics research capacity and the genomics research environment at UTRGV. The Core will help to facilitate collaborative and independent research projects across the different units of the university by leveraging institutional and national resources, and to expand research capabilities to conduct cutting-edge genomics science, with an emphasis on studies in populations experiencing health disparities. The Administrative Core will provide leadership, coordination, administrative oversight, and financial management to the Center through implementation of a comprehensive management plan. It also will implement an evaluation plan to assess Center activities and determine the impact of the Center on 1) enhancing institutional infrastructure and the research environment at UTRGV to facilitate genomic research; 2) increasing the productivity of investigators as determined by peer reviewed publications and genomic discoveries; and 3) increasing UTRGV’s overall success in applying for and obtaining extramural research funding. These comprehensive assessments will facilitate continuous refinement and improvement of Center programs in order to enhance investigator and trainee satisfaction with the Center. A complementary approach to continuous quality improvement will be obtaining advice from Advisory Committees and the Steering Committee. The Center will have both an Internal Advisory Committee and an External Advisory Committee that will conduct regular reviews of progress in the Center and make recommendations regarding the approaches and activities of the Center. In order to maximize the impact of the Center, the Administrative Core will facilitate participation in national genomics consortia, including the consortium of NHGRI Diversity Centers. Center investigators already participate in TOPMed, T2D Genes, ENIGMA, WGSPD, and AMP T2D Genes. The Administrative Core will use a variety of approaches to communicate with the scientific and local communities about opportunities available through the Center and progress made by the Center, including an annual Genomics Research Symposium and an annual Texas Mexico Research Collaboration Colloquium. The Administrative Core will be responsible for implementing the Plan for Enhancing Diverse Perspectives. Through its varied activities, the Administrative Core will work to ensure the success of the UTRGV Diversity Center for Genome Research.