The genomic revolution originated in the study of infectious agents, and it is destined to alter the way we diagnose, manage and prevent infectious diseases. This proposal presents a plan to train M.D., M.D./Ph.D. and Ph.D. scholars as researchers in the pathogenesis, immunology, therapeutics and prevention of infectious diseases through the use of genomics. We propose to prepare all trainees-irrespective of whether they intend to conduct their research at the bench or from the bedside, in fundamentals of both genomics and applied clinical investigation, with the goal of enhancing the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical practice. Ph.D. candidates who have completed their thesis work and M.D. candidates who have completed their clinical training will be evaluated by the Program's Steering Committee and offered admission on the basis of exceptional academic record, faculty interviews, and interest in, and aptitude for research. Every effort will be made to attract minority candidates. The training program will be interdisciplinary, involving faculty from Infectious Diseases, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Gastroenterology, Genetics, Health Research and Policy, Medical Informatics, Microbiology &Immunology, Pathology, and Pediatrics. All fellows will train for at least two years. Each trainee will be encouraged to take courses in clinical research and in basic sciences related to genomics. Additionally, each trainee will complete a two-year interdisciplinary core curriculum in applied genomics of infectious diseases. Beginning in the first year, each fellow will embark on an in-depth research project supervised by one or more of the Program's faculty;in many cases, joint-mentoring will involve faculty from different disciplines. In this way, many research projects will be cross-disciplinary. Quarterly seminars by trainees and an annual research retreat will be held to promote interactions between program participants. Four postdoctoral fellows are to be supported by the Program. While support from the Training grant will be for one year, a minimum of two years of support is guaranteed for each trainee using funds from the faculty mentor;all fellows will be encouraged to seek independent support after the first year. The program intends to meet a recognized need for clinician-scientists in Infectious Diseases who are trained in functional and applied genomics - a recognized strength at Stanford University School of Medicine. Trainees are expected to graduate to academic faculty appointments or to research-oriented positions in Federal or State government, public health or the biotechnology sector.
The purpose of this proposal is to prepare qualified postdoctoral trainees in Infectious Diseases for careers that will have a significant impact on the health-related research needs of the Nation. The training program will exploit the world-class resources and leadership at the host institution in the field of genomics. Graduating trainees from this program will be unusually well-prepared to enhance the public health through the application of this powerful field of science.
Showing the most recent 10 out of 47 publications
