Infection and Immunity: The Pathogenesis of Host-Microbe Interactions

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ABSTRACT The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has made it readily apparent that infectious diseases are a major threat to U.S. health. The goal of this predoctoral T32 program is to train the next generation of researchers in microbiology, and to prepare them with the skills necessary to address the nation’s critical needs in the battle against infectious disease. To do this, we have developed a training program that takes a student-centric, autonomy-supportive approach with the goal of training self-motivated, independent research scientists who are well prepared for diverse research careers. Innovative program features include: an autonomy-supportive educational approach that encourages self-directed exploration of diverse career options; instruction in the “soft skills” necessary for research career success; and the establishment of faculty mentoring practices that support student autonomy and self-directed learning. The program’s renewal expands and enhances our 6 overarching objectives. First, it will provide outstanding interdisciplinary research training in microbial pathogenesis, in part by leveraging unique opportunities created by signature institutional NIH-funded centers that include the Center of Excellence for Influenza Research and Surveillance, Environmental Health Science Center, Vaccine and Treatments Evaluation Unit, and the University of Rochester’s Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute. Second, it will provide outstanding education in microbiology and pathogenesis, which incorporates four major components: 1. a streamlined required core didactic curriculum; 2. required program-specific experiences (including courses, workshops and career/professional development activities); 3. optional elective courses and experiences designed to encourage student exploration, and 4. hands-on thesis research. Third, it will train self-directed, autonomous scientists who are prepared for diverse research career options. To facilitate this, all trainees will complete a personality inventory and an annual Individualized Development Plan (IDP), participate in “Microbiology Career Stories” and other activities offered by the UR’s Broadening Experiences in Scientific Training program which provides avenues for diverse career exploration, and offered the opportunity to participate in extramural internships. Fourth, we provide training in the “soft-skills” necessary for success through participation in a “Leadership Academy” program and supervised training in mentoring. Fifth, we will continue to improve faculty mentoring practices through required instruction in autonomy supportive mentoring practices involving IDPs and “Mentor our Mentors” workshops. Sixth, we will develop a new UR Student Lifecycle program to longitudinally track program alumni, obtain experiential feedback to further optimize the program, assess career outcomes, and establish a formal portal to facilitate trainee networking and career advancement.