The primary mission of the scientific core is the selection and conduct of pilot 
studies designed to further the center’s mission to elucidate the biochemical, physiological, psychological, and behavioral mechanisms involved in the maintenance, deterioration, and therapeutic amelioration of functional health in aging.
These pilot projects are intended to aid the TSC in meeting three goals:
- Obtain extramural funding to further support the Center’s research aims.
- Solidify collaborations among the members of the TSC, and grow the Center by engaging other members from the campus community in its mission to carry out translational research.
- Aid in the career development of junior faculty by designating at least one pilot award per year for studies in which a junior faculty member holds a key leadership role.