Training Program in Biochemistry, Cell and Development Biology

This is an application for the first renewal of a T32 that supports predoctoral training in Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology (BCDB) at Emory University. This award will continue support for a long-term training program, which has successfully trained a talented cohort of students for the biomedical research workforce. We are requesting 8 positions to support graduate students who are typically in their second year of graduate training. The mission of the BCDB training program is to provide an outstanding training environment through evidenced-based learning approaches and top caliber research mentors for development of our Ph.D. level workforce in academic-, industry- and government-based research careers as well as other biomedical research-related careers. This mission will be accomplished through a core curriculum that includes discussion-based, active learning approaches to the fundamental principles of biological processes at the biochemical and cellular level and development of oral and written presentation skills through classroom and seminar experiences. In addition, the importance of rigor and reproducibility in biomedical research is emphasized throughout the training with a required course as well as emphasizing this training as part of the courses, seminars and journal clubs. The objectives of the training program are to use these approaches to provide Ph.D. scientists with the necessary skills in critical thinking, experimental design and quantitative approaches as they acquire an understanding of how to conduct their work in a manner that is responsible, rigorous and reproducible. There is an established focus on annual required mentor training for the faculty preceptors to provide the most outstanding training environment possible. The program also provides unique training opportunities to students supported by the proposed T32 training program through their responsibilities in running an innovative journal club as well as their role in organizing the two annual BCDB symposia; one which highlights career opportunities for Ph.D. graduates. In this renewal application, changes to the proposed training activities as well as the plans for evaluation and assessment are proposed in response to various feedback mechanisms. Overall, we plan to continue our track record of training success while also introducing new and innovative aspects to the training together with mechanisms to evaluate both student and program outcomes.