MPC has five primary research areas that encompass the largest and most compelling new projects currently planned by the Center. Each has a designated convener, appointed by the Director, who brings interested members together for meetings on a regular basis to foster new collaborations and keep participants apprised of new research activities in their areas of interest. These groups are important mechanisms for encouraging the development of new approaches and projects, fostering opportunities for junior as well as mid-level and senior scholars to share their ideas. Any group of MPC members may initiate a new primary research area group, but to ensure sustained support from the Center, they must demonstrate research productivity and seek external funding.