Area Priorities

POCs: Nigel Mouncey, Junko Yano
Experimental and computational research and engineering to enable automated experimentation. Areas of interest include:

• Developing algorithms for remote control of instrumentation
• Developing algorithms that can adapt experimental conditions without human intervention
• Developing technologies for miniaturizing lab processes or increasing throughput
• Developing robust and networked sensors for monitoring biological experiments
• Developing workflows, protocols and programming interfaces for linking automated unit operations
• Engineering automation pipelines for precise control of experimentation

POCs: Junko Yano, Nigel Mouncey
New approaches for biological computing, data analysis, and data management that meet FAIR data principles, create standardized workflows, enable AI/ML, and organize data for future analysis. Areas of interest include:

• Developing standardized workflows for integration of different types of data
• Developing methods for multiscale analysis of biological phenomena and processes
• Developing and applying AI/ML approaches to gain non-intuitive insight into biological phenomena and processes

POCs: Susannah Tringe, Blake Simmons
Research and development of experimental and computational capabilities to enable accurate predictions of biological processes and phenomena, as well as possible interventions. Areas of interest include:

• Predicting function from gene sequence
• Predicting enzyme structure and substrates from sequence
• Predicting microbiome functions and dynamics to enable microbiome manipulation and engineering, e.g. for improved plant resilience
• Predicting and modeling interventions for soil carbon restoration and storage
• Predicting responses to disease and other health outcomes

POC: Katy Christiansen
While the above topics represent strategic priorities for Biosciences and Berkeley Lab, proposals for emerging and nascent research topics of potential strategic interest for Biosciences are encouraged. Proposals should address the following questions:

• What is unique about this research area and proposal?
• Does this topic represent a new area of growth for Biosciences that builds on our strengths as a national lab?
• How does the proposal foster team science and reflect Berkeley Lab’s stewardship values?
• What is the strategic opportunity for Biosciences, Berkeley Lab, the National Lab complex, and/or the U.S. research enterprise? Emphasize evidence for strategic importance: Biosciences Strategic Plan (in the Looks Ahead to 2028), Berkeley Lab priorities, strategic documents from potential funders, National Academies reports, and other resources
• What is the title of this new research area or strategic focus?