Graduate Training in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology

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Program Summary The main objectives of Graduate Training in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology (GTMCP) at the University of Wisconsin (UW)-Madison are to provide predoctoral-level training in interdisciplinary research at the forefront of quantitative and systems pharmacology and a nucleus around which interdepartmental faculty, students, and scientists from across campus can meet and collaborate. Its overall mission is to provide a highly diverse group of trainees with the skills necessary to enter careers related to the Pharmacological Sciences in academia, industry, government, science education, and public policy. Discovering new approaches to drug delivery and developing novel drugs as therapeutics are cornerstones of the program, with a major emphasis on understanding pathways that are relevant to disease. To accomplish these goals, the curriculum focuses on delivering foundational knowledge in Pharmacology, including mechanisms of drug action, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, stressing quantitative thinking and the value of -omic technologies. Carefully evaluated coursework centered on the importance of rigor and reproducibility, responsible conduct of research, safety within the laboratory, and grant writing promote the development of trained PhD scientists who can contribute to the biomedical research workforce. A core group of 29 dedicated faculty trainers has been assembled for this application, representing 10 departments, whose interests focus on understanding molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms by which drugs or natural ligands interact with cellular receptors and elicit effects in biological systems. All trainers have robust research programs and were selected based on a demonstrated commitment to mentoring graduate students in Pharmacology. Faculty members work in the interdisciplinary areas of Neuropharmacology, Cancer Pharmacology, Cardiovascular Pharmacology, Endocrine Pharmacology, and Immunopharmacology, and collaborate extensively with one another to create a highly interactive network. Each trainer has received extensive mentor training and understands the importance of strong mentor-mentee relationships in establishing an inclusive and supportive research environment. GTMCP leverages strong institutional support and substantial resources to facilitate the professional development of its trainees. Through its well-funded seminar series, all trainees are provided regular opportunities to develop excellent oral presentation skills and invite outside faculty speakers from top institutions across the country. Research retreats and symposia offer additional opportunities for students to host and interact with prominent members of the Pharmacology community and develop networking skills. GTMCP also boasts considerable trainee diversity, a high retention rate, a rapid time to degree, and an excellent record of trainee publications. Ten slots to support trainees for two years of their early graduate education are requested based on the growing demand for PhD- level scientists trained in Pharmacology and the high quality of students that apply to UW-Madison.