Carver Genomic Research Center (CGRC)-Building Next Generation Genomic Data Scientist in Rural Alabama - The establishment of a Center for Genomic Research at Tuskegee University is driven by a comprehensive objective: to advance, support, and maintain research, education, and workforce capacity in genomics. The Carver Genomic Research Center (CGRC) aims to enhance research, education, and workforce development in genomics, with an emphasis on preparing the next generation of genomic health scientists across Alabama and the Deep South. The Center’s vision is to catalyze a robust genomic research and education program that nurtures the future workforce and strengthens the University’s mission; advance scientific inquiry by expanding infrastructure and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration; promote the professional development of faculty engaged in genomic research; and lead community-based activities and research that increase awareness of and participation in genomics. The initiative will proceed in two phases: Phase I, a planning phase focused on developing genomic infrastructure, community engagement and outreach, partnerships and collaborations, and an oversight and governance structure; and Phase II, an implementation phase that launches the full-scale center with three cores—Administrative, Genomic Workforce Development, and Community Engagement. The CGRC’s goals will be accomplished through three synergistic research cores that provide services enabling investigative research on genomic factors influencing health across populations in Deep South, with three proposed research projects addressing diseases of significant public health impact through genomic approaches that advance scientific discovery. Tuskegee University brings distinctive strengths to this effort, including its strategic location, strong faculty expertise, and an engaged community of undergraduate and graduate trainees.
