In the past several years, NJMS has taken marked strides and achieved significant accomplishments in the research arena. These include more than doubling extramural funding in the past five years with an increase in researchers involved in both laboratory-based research and major NIH funded clinical trials together with the establishment of several new departments and centers of excellence. These developments have collectively made NJMS a strong multidisciplinary research center. Most recently, UMDNJ has been awarded a $21 million dollar NIH grant for the construction of a state-of-the-art biocontainment facility (RBL) in recognition of the outstanding programs in microbial disease research in Newark. The New Jersey Medical School - University Hospital Cancer Center (to be completed in 2005) will house new clinical facilities and research laboratories in a nine story (200,000 sq. ft.) facility on the Newark Campus.

In the backdrop of this exciting time of growth and success at NJMS, I assumed the position of Senior Associate Dean of Research in January of 2003. My mission and goals are focused on making the scientific environment at NJMS even more conducive to leading edge research. To this end my approach has included:

• Establishment of a comprehensive plan to maximize the utilization of the core facilities to further their impact on the research community.
• Fostering interdisciplinary collaborative research, particularly between researchers in the basic science and clinical departments.
• Facilitating clinical research and clinical trials.
• Aid in the recruitment of biomedical scientists.
• Strengthening our respective programs by fostering interactions among the research institutions in Newark.

In total, these undertakings at NJMS are both challenging and provide us with a great opportunity for expanding our horizons in the future. Pursuant to these goals, I invite you to utilize our Research Resources, particularly our Cell and Molecular Core Facilities and our Animal Research Facilities. Links are also provided to other existing sites relevant to the research investigator.