Training for Transformative Discovery in Psychiatry

This proposal requests support for continuation of T32 MH16804, “Training for Transformative Discovery in Psychiatry” (Years 41-45), and an increase from 4 to 5 postdoctoral slots. T32 MH16804 trains MD, MD/PhD, and PhD scientists to conduct translational neuroscience research utilizing recent advances in our understanding of brain development and function with the goal of generating discoveries of novel mechanisms, and ultimately treatments, for mental illness. T32 MH16804 has been highly successful in achieving these goals as assessed by a number of metrics: 1) high rates of success for trainees in obtaining external funding, faculty appointments, or other research-intensive positions; 2) high quality and impact of trainee publications; 3) effective recruitment of a highly qualified translational neuroscience trainees; 4) recruitment of MD/PhD trainees. T32 MH16804 is led by Robert A. Sweet, MD, a senior translational neuroscience investigator with a record of outstanding mentorship and by Co-Director, Mary L. Phillips, MD, MD (Cantab), an acclaimed investigator and mentor in neuroimaging. Trainees participate in a program of mentored research, seminars, and practicums designed to train them in techniques and strategies such that their resulting research can be translated across multiple levels of discovery. All trainees benefit from the development of individualized training plans and from participation in our highly successful Career and Research Development seminar. During Years 41-45, we have made several additions with the goal of further improving trainee outcomes. We have added new faculty who use cutting edge translational neuroscience methods. We have developed a new seminar series to provide trainees an introduction to next-generation analytic methods such as computational modeling, integrative omics, and machine learning. We provide a new plan for instruction in methods for enhancing reproducibility. We have expanded the role of the Training Committee in monitoring trainee progress, increased the frequency of formal monitoring of trainee progress, and established an External Advisory Committee. With a >7-fold excess of highly qualified, eligible applicants for available slots, T32 MH16804 can support the requested expansion to 5 slots. Increasing to five slots will also provide an optional 3rd year for trainees who need longer to transition to independence. With these changes, T32 MH16804 will be poised to further impact the field by preparing an expanded cohort of translational neuroscientists to make transformative discoveries in psychiatry.