University Of North Dakota Epigenomics Of Development And Disease ADMINISTRATIVE CORE SUMMARY The goal of the Administrative Core (AC) is to promote the growth and success of COBRE Epigenomics of Development and Disease by consolidating, centralizing, and managing all necessary resources. To ensure success of our researchers and promote long-term program growth and sustainability, the AC will provide administrative and financial support for all components of our Center’s activities. The proposed activities aim to 1) Provide administrative and fiscal support for the Genomics Core and its associated training activities, 2) Fund a Pilot Project Program to support epigenetics investigators with focus on new research areas including clinical, translational, and Artificial Intelligence, 3) Provide structured accountability and mentoring activities for junior and mid-career faculty to improve publication and grant success. Improving networking and fostering new and existing collaborations between University of North Dakota researchers and regional and national institutions will be accomplished by hosting epigenetics workshops, seminars and symposia. These activities will also ensure increased utilization of the Genomics Core. Oversight and evaluation procedures for all components will be established through regular internal progress meetings and semiannual review and feedback from the Advisory Committee. The multipronged approach towards sustainability will be undertaken through systematic evaluation of Genomics Core fee-for-services, increased return from individual grants, and planning for future Core consolidation. Collectively these activities will strengthen the Center and raise our visibility by helping execute innovative, cutting-edge research, instituting robust mentoring and accountability for supported faculty, and expanding into new areas that will lead to increased understanding of epigenetic mechanisms in development and disease.