Chemistry-Biology Interfaces at UCSD

PROJECT SUMMARY A predoctoral training program in Chemistry-Biology Interfaces (CBI) at University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) will leverage our historical strengths in interdisciplinary research and join diverse faculty for a robust training environment. UC San Diego has historically excelled at the interface of chemistry and biology, and the renewed support from the University has ensured a strong and vibrant program in the future. Many of the training faculty in this program are new to the University (within the past 10 years), and the collaborative bonds established in this proposal represent the best of interdisciplinary training. The proposal aims to train 10 students each year, with 20% of these slots supported by a match from the Graduate Dean, starting in their second year of graduate studies, and offering support for two years. The proposal establishes a special curriculum for students who will participate in research within preceptor laboratories in Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Pharmacology. The respective Deans/Directors from each of these divisions/centers have offered significant institutional support, including the topping off of tuition/fees and stipends, providing additional trainee slots in the form of fellowships, and assisting administrative and organizational costs associated with this program. The curriculum we have put together offers a training and personal/professional growth experience that will be unique to this program. This includes required coursework in Chemical Biology and Scientific Ethics (with a Scientific Ethics refresher workshop); a CBI Seminar Series that invite world-class scientists; a CBI Workshop that focuses on research, personal, and professional growth; an annual Career Day; an annual Industrial Tour; an annual CBI Symposium of research accomplishments; and regular interaction/feedback from the world-class faculty in our CBI faculty. Given our strengths for interdisciplinary and collaborative research and the outstanding pool of qualified trainees, we believe that CBI at UC San Diego offers an excellent and unique training opportunity.