Molecular Biology of Viral Diseases Predoctoral Training Grant

Over the past several decades, the world has experienced a surge in outbreaks of virus-induced disease that have led to significant human suffering, while putting considerable stress on the global public health system and society. Due to the scientific and public health challenges posed by these viruses, there is an ongoing need for well-trained virology researchers. To meet this need, the UNC predoctoral T32 Virology Training Program requests support for 5 training slots per year. The UNC Virology Training Program consists of 22 faculty members whose research focuses on a diverse set of RNA, DNA, and retroviruses. Together the UNC virology faculty provide cutting edge virology training in viral pathogenesis, virus-host interactions, model systems, host genetics of virus susceptibility, antiviral development, carcinogenic mechanisms, as well as translational research opportunities focused on a number of important human pathogens. Our Program provides our students with fundamental training in virology, combined with laboratory-based training in state-of-the-art virology techniques, while developing critical thinking and scientific communication skills. Our goal is to develop our trainees into well-rounded scientists that are positioned to successfully pursue scientific careers in virology- related research. To achieve these goals, our students receive one to two years of support from the Training Grant during years 3-5 of their training. Our students take three one semester courses covering molecular virology, viral pathogenesis, and a special topics course focused the virology literature. Students routinely present their research at multiple in-house seminar series, take part in several virology focused mini- symposia/training activities, and present their work at local, national, and international scientific meetings. We provide students with a broad array of career development activities in the form of small group meetings, career panels, as well as internship and training programs. In this renewal, we have continued our established Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training, expand student training in Scientific Rigor, provide students with additional career development activities, and prepare them for productive careers within the scientific community. Our program has an outstanding track record of successfully training virologists, and our trainees routinely go on to perform postdoctoral training in top notch research laboratories and have long term success in academic, industry, and government research positions. Therefore, support for the UNC Virology Training Program will allow us to meet a pressing need by allowing us to continue to train the next generation of outstanding virology researchers.