PCT-KUH: Pittsburgh center for training in kidney, urology and hematology

Abstract The primary goal of the PCT-KUH: Pittsburgh Center for Training in Kidney, Urology and Hematology program is to provide an intensive and structured research experience for both physicians and non-physician trainees in order to foster the development of the skills needed to pursue a successful career in investigative nephrology, benign urology and benign hematology. The Pittsburgh region is uniquely equipped to bring together trainees, mentors and resources from three major academic institutions. The primary goal of the Administrative Core is to provide an integrated collaborative infrastructure and administrative support to unite trainees and mentors from the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University and Allegheny Health Network with a shared interest in training KUH researchers. It will also oversee program organization, governance; facilitate collaboration and communication, as well as program evaluation and continuous improvement. To accomplish these goals, we propose the following objectives: Objective 1: To provide infrastructure support for creating an integrated, collaborative and supportive learning environment for pre- and post-doctoral trainees across the core institutions in Pittsburgh. Objective 2: To facilitate coordination and communication among the U2C cores and the TL1 program. Objective 3: To promote collaboration with KUH U2C/TL1 programs nationally and host one Annual Retreat for the national KUH U2C/TL1 community. Objective 4: To facilitate rigorous, unbiased and independent program evaluation. The Administrative Core will facilitate these goals by providing an organization structural including Research Training Executive Committee, Diversity Committee, and Research Advisory Committee. An External Advisory Committee will monitor the progress of our training program. An Evaluation Committee will conduct evaluation of our mentors, trainees and program, and provide suggestions to enhance overall program effectiveness and success.