Pediatric Surgeon-Scientist Training Program in Vascular Diseases

Program Abstract The goal of this training program is to provide the skill-set necessary for translational surgeon- scientists focused on pediatric diseases. Only 3% of T32 programs in the United States are focused on training surgeon-scientists, and only 1 surgical research training program in pediatrics currently exists in Urology. Pediatric surgical diseases are unique because the vast majority result from congenital anomalies. Consequently, pediatric surgical disciplines require specialized training to be best equipped for a translational research career focused on children. This program will provide a 2- year postdoctoral fellowship in translational basic research for individuals in a surgery residency who are planning on a career as a pediatric surgeon. A total of 3 fellows in the program at one time will receive broad training in the fields of vascular diseases and vascular biology. Vascular anomalies affect 5% of the population and involve every anatomical location and organ system. Consequently, all pediatric surgical specialists manage these disorders. Because vascular biology is applicable to almost all pediatric diseases, graduates will be able to apply the skills learned to a broad range of pediatric conditions. The training program consists of 8 pediatric surgical departments and programs. The 13 program faculty are experts in pediatric surgical diseases, vascular anomalies, and/or vascular biology and include surgeon-scientists and basic scientists. The postdoctoral fellows will be based in one of the faculty’s laboratories and will have independent mentored research projects (70% effort), didactic training in translational research methodology (15% effort), participation in conferences and clinics (10% effort), and guidance by a Mentorship Committee to facilitate their transition to independent research careers in pediatric surgery (5% effort). The postdoctoral fellows will be in an outstanding environment to succeed, supported by an internationally-recognized Pediatric Medical and Research Institution, Vascular Anomalies Center, Vascular Biology Program, Lymphedema Program, and Departments of Cardiac Surgery, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Orthopedic Surgery, and Plastic Surgery. The program faculty have a long history of collaboration and a proven track-record of successful research funding and mentoring. This unique training program will produce the next generation of pediatric surgeon-scientists with the skill-set necessary to improve the lives of children through innovative translational research.