A main focus of CMDR activities is to support the development of the Project Leaders to the point of independence, as measured by acquisition of an R01 or equivalent support. To accomplish this, we provide administrative support via the Administrative Core and by addressing the technical needs of Project Leaders via three research cores. In addition, a structured faculty development plan has been tailored to the specific needs of each Project Leader. A key element of their development is a formal mentoring program in which each Project Leader is advised by at least two dedicated mentors with appropriate scientific and mentoring experience. Each Project Leader interacts regularly with other CMDR members via weekly work-in-progress meetings and a distinguished lecturer series.