Training Grant in Cellular, Biochemical and Molecular Sciences

Project Summary/Abstract This application requests support for a predoctoral Training Program in Cellular, Biochemical and Molecular Sciences (CBMS) at Thomas Jefferson University. We request 5-years of funding to support training in the use of biochemical, cellular and molecular strategies to address important

biological questions. The program combines didactic coursework to lay conceptual foundations, seminar and small group courses and meetings to enhance scientific communication, rigorous, evidence-based, research training with a diverse array of mentors to enhance critical thinking skills, and career development activities to provide information and access to a broad set of

biomedical research careers. All mentors in this program have established research programs and significant experience in mentoring. The program will be evaluated through both internal and external review mechanisms to ensure that the trainees receive the best possible training experience. The CBMS Training Program includes faculty research mentors from 10 basic and clinical

departments (Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Medical Oncology, Medicine, Dermatology & Cutaneous Biology, Microbiology & Immunology, Neuroscience, Orthopedic Surgery, Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology, and Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics) and is administered by the Principal Investigators and Administrative Committees. The CBMS

Training Program is focused on delivering broad, cross-disciplinary training in the molecular regulation of cellular function and dysfunction in a safe, diverse, and inclusive environment to produce scientists with strong expertise in critical scientific reasoning, rigorous and reproducible experimental design, quantitative approaches, and excellence in data analysis and interpretation.

Overall, the CBMS Training Program will provide outstanding cross-disciplinary predoctoral training in the use of mechanistic approaches to address important scientific questions in health and disease. Career development programs and plans to enhance diversity within the biomedical research workforce will not only enhance the CBMS Training Program but will enrich and elevate

the overall predoctoral training environment at Thomas Jefferson University.