Integrative Training in the Neurobiology of Addictive Behaviors

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PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT The Integrative Training in the Neurobiology of Addictive Behaviors Program at The University of Chicago offers training for both pre- and postdoctoral trainees in drug abuse-related research. Our core faculty trainers are productive researchers with successful training credentials. Their expertise ranges from molecular biology, electrophysiology, pharmacology and animal models of drug addiction, to the social, behavioral and psychopharmacological aspects of human drug use, including etiology, treatment and drug policy. Quantitative approaches and reproducibility are emphasized. Our goal is to prepare the next generation of scientists to investigate the etiology, prevention and treatment of drug abuse with integrative approaches. We propose a program for 3 predoctoral and 4 postdoctoral trainees. Trainees will be supported by the Training Program for 1-3 years (usually 2 years). Trainees obtain specialized intensive training in their ‘home’ laboratories, but they are also exposed to the full breadth of addictions research outside their own area. To ensure that there is substantial interaction among the trainees, and between trainees and trainers, we schedule bi-weekly meetings consisting of journal club presentations and seminars by invited speakers. Didactic courses range from molecular cellular neuroscience to systems and behavioral neuroscience, from statistics to computational neuroscience and bioinformatics, from genetics and epidemiology to treatment and policy. One other mechanism by which our T32 has enhanced training experience is the “externship” program, in which our trainees receive mentored experiences in laboratories or settings removed from their own. The organizational structure includes an Executive Committee making overall training decisions, a Selection Committee to ensure a good flow and balance of trainees, a Program and Review Committee to monitor trainees’ progress, and an External Advisory Committee to provide expert outside consultation. The University of Chicago provides a unique environment with both a long history of interdisciplinary collaboration and recently a significant commitment to neuroscience research. This provides a rich intellectual context for trainees in drug abuse related research. In addition to the trainees supported by the T32, we have added Associate Members so that any trainee who is interested in addiction research can participate in any of the T32 sponsored activities. This allows us to bring together other trainees and faculty from across campus to raise consciousness about addiction research and its relevance to other disciplines. It brings in new expertise to the group and significantly enriches training opportunities. We will devote resources to recruiting underrepresented minorities and we will provide comprehensive training in ethical conduct of research.