Training Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology

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The mission of the Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) program at Washington University in St. Louis is to provide rigorous interdisciplinary training to a diverse group of PhD students in four related disciplines in order to prepare them for successful careers in the biomedical workforce. It will provide students with the fundamental concepts and methods of cellular and molecular biology, quantitative training, critical thinking and communication skills, and other core competencies. The goal of our renowned and committed faculty is to provide students with a firm foundation in rigorous research design via a holistic approach that includes high- quality mentoring and fostering career development in a vibrant student-focused research environment. Our training opportunities embody the breadth of cell and molecular biology to tackle challenges in human health using systems from viruses and microbes to mammals. Over 100 core facilities support our research and training mission, providing trainees with platforms to learn and utilize cutting-edge technology. The objective of the CMB training program is to enable our students to pursue careers at the vanguard of scientific research and education by helping them establish a broad scientific knowledge and professional skills, rich career preparation guidance and resources, and an interdisciplinary network of colleagues. The CMB training program will support 25 trainees for 2 years. Half of the trainees will be in year 2 and the other half will be in year 3 of the program. These are pivotal years in the training path towards successful independent research. The CMB program is highly integrated and will have a profound impact on the training of more than just our training grant-supported students. Measurable outcomes include PhD completion rates, time-to-degree, program reviews by internal and external faculty, longitudinal tracking of student development and self-efficacy in core competencies. Most importantly, the pinnacle of success of the CMB training program is the ability of our students to achieve their career ambitions in the biomedical workforce. This proposal builds on our successes by introducing both proven and innovative educational features including five new initiatives: 1) Updated curriculum, including a novel skills competency course (an outcome of our program evaluations and student- need centered improvement processes); 2) Improved mentor training processes, including development of new cross-cultural mentor training; 3) Holistic admissions and trainee appointment processes, including removal of GRE requirement; 4) Enhanced training in rigor and reproducibility in core courses and thesis committee meetings; 5) Earlier and more directed focus on career exploration and experiences. The CMB program employs a continuous improvement process informed by internal and external reviewers and evidence-based assessments to develop and implement effective new training methods.