The UTMB Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center encourages UTMB investigators to submit RL5 scholar applications. The Research Education Component engages early-stage investigators in a mentored research experience to support the development of externally funded research. Scholars will work with a primary mentor and members of a research team to create and execute an individual development plan that includes research projects, training activities, funding initiatives, and publications. Scholars are expected to devote a maximum of 50% effort to career development activities related to research in aging and may be receiving salary support from other federal sources. The average length of RL5 support is three years or until other independent funding is obtained.