Congratulations to Jill Dowen’s lab, which was awarded a 5-year NIH MIRA (Maximizing Investigators’ Research Award) grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. This award totals $1.2 million and will support the study of fundamental mechanisms that connect genome organization and gene expression during development and disease.

After successfully serving as the Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences (iBGS) Business Manager, Tracey Conrad has announced she will be transitioning to her new position as the Assistant Director, Business Administration of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center effective Oct. 31.

Ms. Conrad was hired in July 2011 by School of Medicine (SOM) Finance and Business Operations (FBO) to provide financial support and strategic direction for a variety of departments, including iBGS.  This includes managing all state, FNA, trust, and clinical accounts; managing faculty commitments; making projections and strategic planning.

“This is an outstanding opportunity for Tracey,” says Dr. Bob Duronio, iBGS director. “She has been continually committed to the success of iBGS and I have very much enjoyed working with her.  Tracey’s commitment to ensuring a seamless transition to her new position has been exemplary of her skill and dedication.”

Delphi Bull, the current Business Officer, will be transitioning to the Business Manager position while retaining several of her current responsibilities. Ms. Conrad and Ms. Bull have been able to collaborate during the overlap of their positions to ensure a seamless transition.

“Delphi’s combination of talent and experience is an outstanding resource for the faculty, staff, and students at iBGS, “Duronio states. “I have no doubt that she is capable of taking on these additional responsibilities and I look forward to working with her in her new role.”

Questions regarding this transition may be directed to Dr. Bob Duronio at duronio@med.unc.edu.

Register for the Triangle Cytoskeleton Meeting, held Sept. 21, by August 24.

One of the outstanding strengths within the Research Triangle is research on the cytoskeleton – the defining structure of every living cell. The Triangle Cytoskeleton Meeting aims to strengthen communication and collaboration between the Triangle’s institutions.

The one-day event will be held Monday, September 21 and will host talks and poster presentations divided among three sessions:

• Mechanics and Structure of Cytoskeletal Complexes
• Quantitative and Modelling Approaches in Studying the Cytoskeleton
• and the Cytoskeleton in Development and Disease

These sessions, as well as lunch and a happy hour will provide opportunities to interact with fellow researchers throughout the day.

For more information please visit the Triangle Cytoskeleton Meeting website or view the invitation here.

Registrations close on Aug 24th.