Program in Biomedical Sciences

The Program in Biomedical Sciences (PBMS) is a new degree-granting interdisciplinary program designed to provide rigorous training in molecular, biochemical and cellular biology for trainees pursing a career in research-related disciplines. It replaces our prior NIGMS-funded program with substaintial curricular reform

designed to meet the needs of the current biomedical research workforce. PBMS provides high quality didactic training that includes scientific content interwoven with elements that enhance the development of professional skills and ensures the highest standard of research training. PBMS is comprised of six research hubs focused

on 1) Biochemical, Molecular and Structural Biology; 2) Chemical Physiology; 3) Differentiation, Development and Disease, 4) Genome Sciences; 5) Integrated Cancer Biology; 6) Infectious Disease and Immunology. These hubs provide intensive academic environments that are reflective of research strengths at OHSU and

facilitate the training needs of our diverse group of students. Hubs are populated by highly dedicated faculty and trainees at all levels to create inspiring research training opportunites. The mission of PBMS is to train students from a diversity of personal backgrounds and biomedical disciplines so they are prepared to

successfully enter the biomedical research workforce. Associated with PBMS is this proposed T32 program, which is fully integrated into the PBMS structure. It brings added value through new experiential learning and career development opportunites, and creating a growing cohort that fosters inclusiveness. The overarching

objective is to provide high-quality research training and facilitate transition into a variety of potential careers. This is supported by curricular reform that includes mentored research experiences, interdisciplinary scientific research training, experiential professional training, and an environment that enhances opportunities for

collaborative work. The objectives of the program are: 1) Provide trainees with the specific skills they need to successfully enter the biomedical workforce in the field of their choosing. This includes activities that inform students about career opportunities, how to prepare for their career choice, and networking opportunities to

facilitate career entry; 2) Enhance the training environment to become more inclusive and supportive, with the goal of building and sustaining diversity at all levels in our program; 3) Expand the highly collaborative nature of our research enterprise by encouraging trainee involvement in identifying and participating in new

collaborations; 4) Reduce time to completion from the current average 5.6-years to 4.5-years, which is addressed by substantial curricular reform; 5) Increase the completion rate for all trainees. In the past 5-years 98% of well-represented trainees but only 85% from underrepresented groups completed the PhD. Improved

retention is based on efforts to build a more inclusive training environment that supports and values diversity at all levels. Trainees from this program will enter the biomedical research workforce with the expertise in a basic biomedical discipline and skills to independently acquire knowledge to advance their chosen field.