CENTER FOR STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY

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This proposal describes three interrelated Core activities (Proteomics, Bioinformatics, Outreach) that have been cast bo build a multi- disciplinary research team to address the next, more challenging phase of genomics, how gene products give rise to function. Guided by Steering and Advisory committees, with routine operations assisted by an Administrative Core, this BRIN Center for Structural Biology will provide access to high-throughput proteomics technology, molded by exchanged visits and consultation with top experts in the field. Protein structure is central to function, and around this theme the consolidating aim of our BRIN proposal will be to nurture, train, and provide a networking resource that will bring forth the best research and more competitive research applications from the State of New Hampshire. To meet these challenges we describe: (i) a consortium of proteomics problems submitted by established and young investigators to build mentoring relationships; (ii) a new focus on the next-phase of bioinformatics to disentangle data quality from quantity; (iii) a centralized research center for service, and development; and, (iv) an outreach program of teacher training for smaller college and high schools, (and their students), with a feeder concept to encourage the best and brightest to pursue careers in health-related research. In this comprehensive approach, it is the specific goal of this Program to first match the best technology in proteomics, bioinformatics, and core resources with new facilities, instrumentation, and tenure-track hires. Second, we have selected problems (protein interaction, mapping, glycomics, sensor chips) and collaborators, (Vidal, Schachter, Dennis, Seitz), that introduce strategies to approach the next dimension of genome function, characterizing protein spatial and temporal expression patterns, and their potential interacting partners. These will be the backbone of functional annotations from which new biological questions can be formulated. Finally, to insure that these personnel and physical resources lay the seeds for growth and self-sufficiency, we introduce an extensive networking program for today's teachers, and tomorrow's students. Summer instrumental and bioinformatics training programs, and speaker forums will be followed by selective distribution of instruments to networking schools. These local instruments will not only serve as tools for indigenous research and teaching, but catalyze further biological inquiry and research through the State-wide network. Directed and guided by experienced hands in K-12 through graduate science teaching (Hopkins, Bauer, resp.,), this component of our Program may be the most compelling and long lasting.