Cellular Biotechnology Training Program (CBTP) - Years 31-35

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Abstract This new application requests support for the newly re-designed University of Michigan (U-M) Cellular Biotechnology Training Program (CBTP). The goal of the PSTP is to develop a diverse pool of well-trained biomedical scientists who have the technical, operational and professional skills to conduct cutting-edge biotechnology research in an ethically responsible and rigorous manner, and to enter diverse careers in the biomedical research workforce. Annual support for 12 trainees, with 6 new trainees appointed each year for 2- year duration, is requested throughout the five years of funding. CBTP trainees are distributed across 12 Ph.D. programs from four colleges at the university (Medical School, College of Engineering, College of Pharmacy, and College of Literature, Science and Arts). For over 29 years, CBTP has trained leaders in biotechnology field with 137 alumni working in pharmaceutical and medical device industry, academia, government agencies, and in non-traditional careers venture capital, patent law, and consulting. The CBTP training faculty comprise an accomplished, well-funded and collaborative group of scientists and innovators who are dedicated to graduate education and mentorship in biotechnology disciplines. The unique programmatic activities of CBTP provide students with insights into the experimental paradigms of diverse scientific disciplines, as well as exposure to entrepreneurship and commercialization. These activities include: (1) A core course to provide general background in biotechnology that requires students to work in multi-disciplinary groups; (2) A required course focused on biotechnology product development and regulatory approvals; (3) A biostatistics requirement; (4) Required courses in Research Responsibility and Ethics and Rigor and Reproducibility of Research; (5) Monthly student meetings to provide opportunities for student presentations, career development, and diversity and well-being workshops; (6) Monthly career chats with biotechnology leaders; (7) Research internships in the biotechnology industry; (8) An Annual Symposium with an external keynote speaker and student posters; (9) Ample elective technical and professional classes; (10) On-site visits to local biotechnology companies and networking at MichBio Conferences; and (11) Faculty/trainee use of mentoring and individual development plans (IDPs). These innovative activities are designed to promote student interaction and networking with peers, faculty, alumni and industry professionals. The program now includes a robust and formative evaluation component that is focused on improving outcomes through the engagement of an outside consulting firm, as well as the formation of internal and external advisory boards. The strength of CBTP has been recognized by the University through significant financial support and by its designation as a certificate-granting program. Overall, CBTP enhances students' Ph.D. experience by emphasizing interdisciplinary science and providing tools to translate basic science into commercialized biotechnologies.