A postdoctoral training program for impactful careers in stem cell biology

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Project Summary The Institute for the Biology of Stem Cells (IBSC) at UCSC proposes a postdoctoral training program for 5 fellows each year (4 NICHD, 1 UCSC sponsored) that prepares postdoctoral fellows to take on leadership roles in pro- fessions that translate stem cell research into life-long health benefits. The trainees are sponsored for 2-year training periods that encompass rigorous research focused on normal and abnormal human development in a stem-cell context and individually tailored career development plans to prepare trainees for academic or biomed- ical industry jobs. The program was developed in response to research showing that structured mentoring and targeted career skill building improve career outcomes and increase the motivation of trainees to remain in sci- ence-focused careers, especially women and minority postdocs. The core of the interdisciplinary training program consists of mentored research in laboratories of 24 faculty members (seasoned and new mentors) belonging to six departments: Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biol- ogy; Biomolecular Engineering; Chemistry; Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology; Applied Mathematics; Electrical and Computer Engineering. All mentors accepted into this training program have well-funded stem cell research programs in NICHD focus areas and have strong scientific records. All mentors will receive regular mentoring training and new faculty will be paired with seasoned mentors. Trainees will also select co-mentors to support reaching their career goals. Trainees enter the program as a cohort and perform research in a mentor laboratory. In year 1, postdocs will also take part in formal training including grant writing, responsible conduct of research, and methods for enhancing reproducibility. In year 2, the program offers a number of additional training and practical opportunities that enhance leadership, mentoring, entrepreneurial, and communication skills. Participation is customized to each trainee’s career goals and will be guided by research mentors and co-mentors. The program is administered by an Internal Executive Committee and overseen by an External Advisory board. An External Selection Committee reviews and ranks program applicants for appointment to the program. An Entrepreneurship Committee will advise on program aspects designed for fellows with interest in industry careers. Program administration monitors training progress and program success through quarterly feedback, through annual program reviews by mentors and postdocs, and by documenting the career development of former trainees. This program is designed to improve the job satisfaction, productivity, retention, and career outcomes of postdoctoral fellows. The proposed training structure is supported enthusiastically by UCSC, as reflected in the substantial institutional support for this program.