Advancing Child Health Through Cellular and Molecular Biology

Project Summary / Abstract The University of Michigan Child Health Research Career Development Award (CHRCDA) program is designed to support the career development of junior pediatric investigators. CHRCDA scholars participate in an intensive, mentored training program in cell and molecular biology as well as a didactic educational program designed to ensure their continued research development. Since its launch in 1992, the Michigan CHRCDA has contributed to the training of over 60 pediatrician-scientists, the majority of whom have obtained R-level NIH funding for the study of childhood diseases. The Aims of this renewal application are to: 1) Provide junior pediatric physician-scientists with the opportunity to study basic mechanisms and the pathogenesis of diseases that impact children’s health in Michigan; 2) Enhance the translational research training for pediatrician-scientists; and 3) Continue to recruit the most promising junior pediatrician-scientists for training, including those from diverse backgrounds. To achieve these Aims, the Program Director, Dr. Martin and Co-Training Directors, Drs. Hershenson and Lumeng, will be assisted by 1) a Scientific Advisory Committee to oversee program direction and scholar selection and evaluation; 2) an External Advisory Board to provide an independent review of the program; 3) an Education Core to oversee scholar didactic training; and 4) a Recruitment Officer to assist in identification and recruitment of minority candidates. Finally, due to the urgent need to train pediatrician-scientists, the University of Michigan Medical School Dean’s Office and the Department of Pediatrics have agreed to provide additional matching funds to complement and extend the support to individuals received through the NIH-CHRCDA when needs are identified.