Part of the barrier between the epidemiologist and the molecular biologist is that the training and scientific language of the disciplines are substantially different. The MBSPFC serves a useful role in the NIEHS Center in bringing interesting results and laboratory methods to the attention of epidemiologists, and similarly bringing to the attention of the molecular biologists the current activities of epidemiologists and the questions being raised that require their input. In that regard, Dr. Dubeau takes an active role in the seminar series and workshops sponsored by the Center.

The MBSPFC also provides a laboratory where students assigned to specific projects within the NIEHS Center can be trained in particular techniques and can be educated about new concepts that represent new directions for their laboratories. Such students, once trained, can then go back to their respective laboratories with the knowledge and expertise necessary to carry through their respective research projects.

Another important role of the Core director is to act as a consultant for NIEHS Center members. This role is particularly useful when an investigator is writing up a new grant application, as the MBSPFC provides a place where the investigator can discuss the feasibility and merit of his/her strategy. Some members, for example, may be considering the use of a specific molecular technique that they are not familiar with. Others may be considering a line of investigation that involves concepts (for example DNA methylation, cell cycle regulation, etc.) with which they are not familiar.