How the AMRF Model Comes to Life
Virtual labs
The AMRF model creates virtual labs. Three or more entities, such as scientists, laboratories or clinics come together, each contributing a unique expertise. These entities are multi-disciplinary and often inter-institutional.
Shared goals
Each lab determines a shared purpose and set of tangible goals. Those goals must accrue to two objectives: Finding common denominators across diseases in their genes, cells, molecules and pathways, and focus on therapies and interventions.
Critical success factors
The labs align to the AMRF model in that they have a long-term vision, a common objective, are disease-agnostic, are open to creative risk, are nimble and operate within a culture of trust.
Steps in the AMRF Process
Establish research program focus:
Align on a general set of objectives for researchers to target, such as the regeneration of nerve cells.
Recruit a cadre of multi-disciplinary scientists:
Identify and recruit a varied group of multi-disciplinary, cross-organizational experts to be part of a virtual lab.
Bring the virtual lab together to:
- Develop a programmatic research agenda designed to reach short and long-term program goals
- Form collaborations and create proposals
Evaluate and prioritize proposed collaborations:
AMRF has a short application procedure and a relatively quick, multi-level review process for evaluating and prioritizing collaborative proposals.
Support ongoing research activities:
AMRF provides additional research support through research platforms and shared services. It both incubates the labs by aligning, providing facilities and support; and insulates the labs by reducing burden.
Promote the dissemination of findings within the program:
AMRF ensures that sharing discoveries is an open, collaborative manner.