PROJECT SUMMARY – Research Capacity Core The proposal aims to provide resources and expertise to enhance biomedical research quality and productivity through a Morgan State University (MSU) RCMI Research Capacity Core (RCC). With current funding support by NIMHD/RCMI and NIH/NIGMS/BUILD, MSU has established three biomedical core facilities as follows: (a) A Molecular and Cellular Biology Core (MCB) that offers routine and advanced research instrumentation and training in a diversity of research technologies; (b) An Animal Research Facility (ARF) that has obtained NIH OLAW assurance and provides consultation, training, and animal care; and (c) A Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Support Unit (BBSU) that provides consultation and training in quantitative research methods. Based on reviews, project evaluations, user feedback, and the projected research directions (including RCMI research projects and pilot projects), we propose to further enhance the resources and services through the following specific aims: (1) acquire research instrumentation and technologies to enhance the research capacity of the existing Cores and thereby increase research quality and productivity at MSU; (2) revamp current management structures and institute cost recovery systems to further institutionalize the resources and engender long-term sustainability; and (3) facilitate collaborations between researchers across disciplines and institutions with a view of promoting impactful team science. Under the proposed scope, instrumentation will be purchased to meet the needs of the three proposed RCMI projects, planned pilot projects, and other research projects at the university. New equipment for genomics and genetics analyses will support the proposed basic biomedical research project and the behavioral research project. The current cell analysis capabilities will be expanded with the acquisition of a benchtop flow cytometer capable of multiplex fluorophores to support the behavioral research project, pilot projects, and ongoing projects on cancer and cell biology. Data analysis and archiving will be expanded with the purchase of computers and relevant software to allow HIPAA-compliant informatics to meet the needs of the behavioral research project and clinical project. The RCC will strengthen core laboratory management practices by implementing new laboratory management software and drawing on more faculty expertise. A sustainability plan will include cost-recovery efforts and continued institutionalization of some RCC functions. The BBSU will promote the use of national data such as All of Us data and promote engagement with the NIH Clinical and Translational Sciences Award (CTSA) programs. In collaboration with the Investigator Development Core and Community Engagement Core, the RCC will support pilot and community-based projects. The RCC will also engage the Baltimore community in education, research, and disseminate current scientific advances related to healthy urban co...