The University of Kentucky Energy Research Priority Area seeks to enhance the energy research strengths of the university, centered in the Center for Applied Energy Research, through support for a diverse cohort of new faculty and staff working within the energy space. This will extend UK’s current strengths through targeted, collaborative hires and support of associated faculty and staff. The focus: provide start-up funds in partnership with departments, colleges and centers for 7 or 8 new faculty and staff hires in targeted areas; and support hires through seed grants, inclusion on multi-PI grants, and mentoring with $250,000 matched by departments, colleges, and centers.