The goal of the Caribbean Genome Center (CGC) is to organize a viable research and education program in genome biology at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez (UPR-M). Taking advantage of the geographical location, we focuses on genomes of endemic group of birds from the Caribbean (genus Amazona), starting with Puerto Rico’s own critically endangered parrot, A. vittata. A genome draft of this species is being sequenced and assembled to serve as a reference for the subsequent assemblies for the rest of the species in the model group. Comparative analysis of genomes and metagenomes of closely related Amazona will provide experimental basis for learning next-generation sequencing, assembly, annotation and evolutionary analysis tools. In this career development plan, the development of local expertise in genomics combined with educational activities will establish the foundation for the long-term research program in structural, functional, environmental, and comparative genomics, bioinformatics and evolutionary analysis, and provide practical material for teaching courses in the biology of genomes, as well as a serious of practical workshops. We rely on a wide collaboration network in the global scientific community in a variety of joint scientific projects, and creates new opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students in genome research. Developing a unique research program at the Caribbean Genome Center will provide Puerto Rican students with an opportunity to learn and use next-generation sequencing and turn it into a focal point for promoting genome science to the local community.