Purpose
The benefits of a formal cross-cutting initiative, in contrast to activities managed within individual thematic programs, are multifold. This initiative seeks to broaden and deepen the approach to studying each pathogen by connecting researchers and leveraging their tools, including ex vivo studies of natural host cells/organs, animal models, innate and adaptive immune responses, and potential vaccine platforms. The primary goal is to develop or improve antivirals, antibiotics, antifungal, and anti-parasitic agents. This initiative aims to focus multiple skills, tools, and insights on a comprehensive approach to preventing or controlling specific infectious diseases.
Scope
This initiative aims to bridge the Infectious Disease Institute (IDI) community with other university-wide centers, such as the Center for RNA Biology, Center for Biostatistics, Gene Therapy Institute, and Comprehensive Cancer Center, as well as cores like the CRISPR core, animal core, and 3-D primary and iPSC cultures. This will facilitate collaboration and resource sharing across disciplines.
Goals
- Guide “match-making” for projects that require specific services or expertise.
- Enhance competitiveness for securing large interdisciplinary extramural grants (P and U) as well as SBIR and STTR grants.
- Foster collaboration and innovation by connecting researchers and leveraging their diverse skills and tools.
- Develop a comprehensive approach to preventing or controlling specific infectious diseases through focused research and collaboration.