SIF176C Prominence-to-Preeminence (P2PE) STEM Targeted Initiatives Fund.

BIG Steps Forward.

Project Manager: Tajie Harris

Approved: November 2021

Project Dates: 3/01/2022 – 2/28/2027

Funding Awarded: $4,700,000

Executive Summary

The overarching research theme of BIG Steps Foward is advancing the understanding of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease. Neuroinflammation research at the University of Virginia is a nationally- and internationally-recognized interdisciplinary research strength. Researchers within the center for Brain Immunology and Glia (BIG) are uniquely poised to address how the immune system impacts the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. The predominant goal of BIG Steps Forward is to accelerate the development of research in this area by providing key resources that will generate applications from UVA BIG more competitive for prestigious external funding. There is a dire need for new therapies to treat Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and the UVA BIG center will rise to preeminence as we tackle this complex and devastating disease.