Exploratory Research in Veterinary Molecular Biology

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Infectious disease causes considerable loss for livestock producers by reducing production of animal units and by reduced sales because of food safety concerns. Veterinary Molecular Biology (VMB) is the only research unit in Montana focused on animal health, particularly on the study of infectious diseases of cattle. New faculty members joining VMB are required to initiate new research projects. In addition, other faculty not on Montana Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES) funding may be hired to develop new short-term projects. These projects are in support of the respective missions of MAES and VTMB. This department project is to be used by these scientists prior to their approved MAES project. Support is also provided to maintain and operate departmental research facilities.

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APPROACH: VMB scientists utilize state-of-the-art molecular approaches to address basic and applied problems in infectious disease research. These research programs require laboratories, large and small animal facilities, clinics, and modern research equipment, such as flow cytometers, DNA sequencers, and genomics analysis facilities. Specific methods and procedures utilized are dependent upon program type and necessary protocols. New or existing faculty members must develop an understanding of Montana and regional issues and a more in-depth understanding of existing research programs, prior to developing their own MAES project proposals. <P>Work Plan: VTMB projects have short- and long-term objectives that lead to scientific accomplishments and programmatic growth through increased grant and contract activity. It is expected that all MAES-funded projects eventually become funded by extramural sources. This increased extramural funding leads to sustainable increases in graduate student and research associate numbers. Results are disseminated through published scholarly activity and various outreach activities. Evaluation: After satisfactory review, new projects are initially approved for a three-year period. In subsequent years, these and existing projects are reviewed through standard procedures. After three years, the projects are reviewed for relevance, productivity, and scientific merit. Productive projects may then be recommended for periods of up to five years. More frequent evaluations occur during annual performance evaluations with individual faculty members.