PRedOctoral PhD and MD research training in TEams (PROmoTE)

The landscape of highly trained PhD investigators and MD physician-scientists in kidney disease research continues to dwindle, highlighting the need for innovative and transformational training schemes that inspire and motivate the next generation of kidney researchers and nephrologists. Exposure to mentors and engagement in kidney research and training early and at key influential times in a scholar’s educational progression are required to enhance the understanding and to demystify the complexities of kidney physiology and kidney disease pathophysiology. The period of time right before matriculation into graduate or medical school training is a pivotal moment in scholars’ careers, where they are well-grounded in their decision to move forward in graduate or medical school training, but influential for their specialized training. The PROmoTE program forms cohorts of pre-matriculating PhD and MD students into four (4) teams/year under the direct mentorship of PhD and MD kidney-relevant research faculty at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). These annual cohorts of PROmoTE scholars engage in an immersive didactic course and team science training from basic to clinical and translational science research. The PROmoTE teams conduct hands-on, rigorous research focused on kidney disease. Scholars are exposed to the depth of scientific thinking, communication, collaboration, and leadership skills that prepare them throughout their careers. From 2019-2024, we recruited 40 PROmoTE scholars, of whom 70% (28 of 40) are engaged and interested in the UAB Kidney community after matriculating into their respective PhD and MD programs. The PROmoTE program renewal includes innovative opportunities and awareness of kidney-focused careers to expand the scientist and physician-scientist workforce and broaden the impact of research-minded individuals dedicated to kidney systems and diseases. Two specific aims guide the PROmoTE R25 program renewal: Aim 1. Engage the next generation of kidney researchers/nephrologists in a rigorous and immersive summer research program where they are paired in teams with a focus on kidney disease research and the development of critical thinking, scientific rigor, and clinical knowledge. Aim 2. Within the UAB kidney community, cultivate the skills and continual mentoring that the next generation of kidney researchers/nephrologists will need to function successfully in translational kidney research teams.