RI-INBRE: A Statewide NIH Program Grant to Improve Institutional Biomedical Research Capacity in Rhode Island

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Research
• Health Sciences
• Biotechnology

Background:

• The Rhode Island-IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (RI-INBRE) was established to enhance biomedical research capacity and training within Rhode Island.
• The program comprises five core components: Administrative, Bioinformatics, Centralized Research Core Facility, Training, and Developmental Research Project Program.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of RI-INBRE on institutional capacity for biomedical research excellence.
• To evaluate the expansion of student experiential training opportunities in biomedical fields.
• To document advancements in research infrastructure and faculty/student engagement.

Main Methods:

• RI-INBRE funding supported faculty researchers and research projects across institutions.
• Structured and mentored research training experiences were provided to undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students.
• Investments were made in the state's biomedical research infrastructure, particularly at undergraduate institutions.

Main Results:

• Over 19 years, RI-INBRE supported 212 faculty researchers and 533 projects.
• Nearly 2,000 students received research training, contributing to 757 publications.
• Significant improvements in research quality, output, and infrastructure were observed, especially at undergraduate institutions.

Conclusions:

• RI-INBRE has demonstrably increased the scale and quality of biomedical research in Rhode Island.
• The program has successfully fostered regional workforce development by encouraging students toward biomedical careers.
• RI-INBRE has been pivotal in enhancing research infrastructure and training opportunities, particularly at primarily undergraduate institutions.