Program in Hematology: Molecular & Cell Biology of Blood Cells

This application requests continued funding for a postdoctoral research training program in hematology that has been successful in attracting young scientists and physician-scientists into academic careers in hematology. The program has as its primary objective to prepare MD, MD/PhD, and PhD postdoctoral fellows for productive careers in the hematology research workforce. We are requesting support for four postdoctoral trainees per year (two PhD trainees and two MD or MD/PhD trainees), which is unchanged from the previous grant period. Under the leadership of MPIs Steven Lentz and Anil Chauhan, the training will be carried out in an enriched environment of active basic, translational and clinical investigation at an institution that emphasizes the career development and collaborative science. We aim to recruit outstanding postdoctoral trainees who wish to obtain comprehensive knowledge of the principles and techniques of basic and translational research related to hematology, blood cells, vascular biology, coagulation, hematopoiesis, and immunobiology, and prepare them for successful careers as independent investigators or related scientific positions. We have defined six specific objectives for trainees that are linked to measurable outputs in our evidenced-based evaluation process. Upon completion of the program, trainees will be able to: (1) Integrate knowledge of basic mechanisms, research methods, and clinical hematology to identify the most significant and impactful research questions; (2) Demonstrate critical thinking and reasoning in the conduct of research; (3) Demonstrate integrity and rigor in the conduct of research; (4) Demonstrate skills in oral and written communication, including grant applications and publications; (5) Demonstrate skills in leadership and mentoring. Several new initiatives have been instituted, including expansion of the clinical hematology fellowship and creation of an advanced hematology fellowship track, closer partnership with the PSTP (a robust pipeline for physician-scientist trainees), a new scientific focus on thrombo-inflammation and stroke, and implementation of structured individualized career mentoring. The curriculum includes core lectures in clinical hematology, research methods, RCR, rigor and reproducibility, and grant writing. Mentoring committees and individual development plans are required for all trainees. The foundation of training continues to be centered on the individual mentored research project, marked by a period of intensive, sustained research under the guidance of an established, dedicated mentor. The rich training environment provided by experienced faculty, extensive laboratory, clinical, and core facilities, and strong institutional support should ensure continued success in attracting and preparing highly qualified postdoctoral trainees for careers in hematology research.