The scale of biological studies is rapidly evolving and biological phenomena are now observed at both super-high resolution and with genome- and organism- wide perspectives. To rise to these challenges, we must train the new generation of students to develop a broad and interdisciplinary knowledge of modern biology and experimental approaches in a highly collaborative environment. The training program in Molecules, Cells, and Organisms (MCO) is a cross- departmental doctoral training program located in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at the Cambridge Campus of Harvard University. This highly innovative program establishes the foundation for students to become the next- generation biologists. MCO faculty mentors represent all fields of modern biology, from biophysics, structural biology and microbiology, to developmental and regenerative biology, neurobiology and genomics. Collaborating departments include Molecular and Cellular Biology, Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, and Physics. Through its structure of core course requirements, quantitative biology courses, journal club, nanocourses, lab rotations, seminars, hands-on model systems workshops, scientific colloquia and retreats, the MCO program exposes its trainees to the full scope of research options available to modern biologists today, and helps them develop outstanding reasoning skills and creativity, as well as oral and written communication. As the advanced field of biological analysis is now attracting scientists from all disciplines, the MCO program is designed to meet the challenge of training that combines the methods of chemistry, physics, mathematics and informatics with new concepts of cellular and molecular biology.

Public Health Relevance

The proposed training program is designed to provide both the breadth and depth of didactic and research training necessary to prepare life scientists for this new era of interdisciplinary and collaborative research and discovery.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS)
Type
Institutional National Research Service Award (T32)
Project #
2T32GM007598-37
Application #
8663388
Study Section
(TWD)
Program Officer
Gindhart, Joseph G
Project Start
1978-07-01
Project End
2019-06-30
Budget Start
2014-07-01
Budget End
2015-06-30
Support Year
37
Fiscal Year
2014
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Harvard University
Department
Microbiology/Immun/Virology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
City
Cambridge
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02138
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