The University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) is a leading R1 designated research institution and a key member of the regional life sciences consortium. With a strong commitment to advancing scientific discovery and innovation, UMKC continues to expand its research enterprise through the development of cutting-edge laboratories, the recruitment of exceptional faculty, and the establishment of disease-focused Centers of Excellence. Central to these efforts is the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation (ORI), which serves as a foundational component of the university’s research infrastructure. ORI is dedicated to supporting and enhancing the scholarly, scientific, and creative activities of UMKC’s faculty and staff across all disciplines.