Community Engagement Core for Genomics in South Texas
Official title: Community Engagement Core
Funded at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley · NIH-11421438 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A community-focused program in South Texas will build trusted relationships, improve understanding of genomics, and encourage participation in genomic research to benefit local health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Rio Grande Valley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Edinburg, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $328,993 |
| NIH project number | 5U54HG013247-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11421438 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal participants are individuals and community members in South Texas who are interested in learning about genomics and may later participate in related genomic research projects.
✕Less likely to help
Some community members may not directly benefit if they choose not to participate or if findings do not translate into local health services.
What this research studies
This grant supports a Community Engagement Core in the South Texas region to strengthen ties between researchers and local communities, with a focus on health conditions influenced by genetics and environment. It will use focus groups, interviews, and surveys to identify needs and barriers to genomic research participation, and to promote genomic literacy. The Core will collaborate with other center components to maximize engagement and retention in genomic studies and share findings back with the community.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, communities in South Texas could see better access to genomic information, more participation in genomic research, and improved alignment of research with local health concerns.
How similar studies have gone: The approach of community engagement and genomic literacy has shown promise in improving participation in genomic research in other communities.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maestre, Gladys E. — University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Study coordinator: Maestre, Gladys E.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.