Multidisciplinary Training in Molecular and Translational Rheumatology Research

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Project Summary/Abstract This is a resubmission of a new application from the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons for a postdoctoral training program in autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The program’s mission is to train promising young rheumatologists and early career PhD investigators in the methodologies and approaches needed for scientific careers in Molecular and Translational Rheumatology. Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, and incidence rates appear to be rising. Yet at the same time there has been a substantial and progressive decline in the number of rheumatologists choosing physician-scientist careers. Accordingly, this new T32 application will address this need by identifying highly qualified candidates for academic rheumatology careers and creating an innovative training environment that fills these needs and that builds on the considerable strengths of this research University. The proposed training is focused around three major themes, each reflecting a phase of the ARDs: 1) genetic predisposition and mechanisms; 2) pre-clinical autoimmunity; and 3) progression to clinical disease. We have engaged a superb set of primary mentors in Rheumatology and secondary mentors outside Rheumatology, many already active collaborators, who span multiple Departments and Centers and who encompass all three research themes. All of the mentors are well funded, the vast majority with NIH funding and have track records of successfully mentoring trainees to independent careers in investigation. The training period is two years in duration. Trainees will consist of Rheumatology postdoctoral fellows, as well as PhD and MD-PhD postdoctoral fellows who are committed to research in the ARDs. Funding is requested for one slot in Year 1, increasing to two slots in Years 2 and 3, and advancing to 3 slots in years 4 and 5. The training program consists of one-on-one training by the Mentor, as well as required lectures and coursework, and including optional degree coursework. A major focus of training will be on learning to bridge computational science with the biology of rheumatic diseases. This program will prepare the next generation of investigators in molecular and translational rheumatology research who will ultimately make significant contributions to our nation’s public health as independent investigators.