The concept for this Institute stems from President Bruininks designation of neuroscience as one of the areas for University-wide development, building on the existing strengths across the University. The ITN is charged to enhance basic science discovery with the new knowledge leading to subsequent clinical trials and establishment of new therapeutic principles or tools. The ITN will create a corridor of discovery and application that leverages the strengths in basic neuroscience, imaging and other interdisciplinary resources. To accomplish these goals a steering committee was appointed under the direction of Dr. Harry T. Orr. At the outset ITN consists of five centers: The Grossman Center for Memory Research and Care, the Center of Neuroengineering, the Center for Neurodegenerative and Neuromuscular Diseases (including the Wellstone Center for Muscular Dystrophy), the Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, and the Center of Neurodevelopment and Mental Health. With $1.8 million recurring funds, the institute aims to attract and recruit top scientists – ITN Scholars - in this spectrum of disciplines to shape discoveries that will lead to tomorrow’s cures.