Multidisciplinary Approach Training in Respiratory Research

Abstract The Multidisciplinary Research Training Program (MRTP) in pulmonary disease provides comprehensive research training for individuals committed to a career in lung biology and biomedical research. Our main objective is to provide structured, intensive research and didactic training to pulmonary physicians at the GME fellowship level and Ph.D. scientists with interests in lung disease. Our primary goal is to foster the development of trainee skills needed to pursue successful investigative careers. We recognize the importance of multidisciplinary training and the synergy of interactions among M.D., M.D./Ph.D., D.O. and Ph.D. trainees. We provide broad access to two training modules, basic or clinical science, bridging a translational continuum. For those pursuing a predominantly basic science pathway, the key training activity will be mentored time in a basic research laboratory, supplemented by participation at research conferences and targeted didactic education. For those choosing a more clinical focus, the key training activity will be mentored time conducting a clinically focused research project coupled with didactic training focused on gaining clinical study design skills, while ensuring translational expertise. We appreciate that this basic-translational-clinical continuum is fluid as we focus on providing participants opportunities to explore the translational relevance of their investigative focus. Drs. Fernando Martinez and Augustine Choi serve as co-Program Directors, while Drs. Robert Kaner and Heather Stout-Delgado serve as Associate Program Directors. This group has a long record of investigative and mentoring collaboration, while refining a robust approach to comprehensive assessment of trainee progress with a series of overlapping systems that allow a careful tracking of trainees achieving pre-established benchmarks and timetables. The program leverages a dynamic mentoring team with robust training units comprised of an outstanding multidisciplinary faculty with active research programs in either lung disease or in disciplines relevant to lung disease. Our recipe for success remains a simple and focused one: a) identify three post-doctoral trainees yearly with a demonstrated interest in a research focused career; b) structure a nurturing and productive environment; c) identify a mentor and/or co-mentor ideally suited to provide training and mentoring; and d) provide a period of support (up to 3 years) so that training can progress to a point where the emerging investigator can compete for an entry level award and thrive as an independent investigator.