Purdue University Molecular Biophysics Training Program PROJECT SUMMARY In 2015, the Zika virus outbreak emerged as an international public health crisis. In less than a year, scientists at Purdue University published the structure of the mature Zika virus capsid, providing immunologists and drug discovery experts with a sophisticated molecular understanding of how to rationally develop selective anti-viral agents. This remarkably fast transition from the discovery of a novel disease to an atomic model was made possible by a cutting-edge electron microscopy facility, a deep understanding of the theory and application of biophysics, and a diverse team of researchers spearheaded by a well-trained predoctoral student. Successful molecular biophysics training programs will instill upon its trainees many of the same qualities that made this example so effective. To this end, the mission of the Purdue University Molecular Biophysics Training program is to bring together 27 preceptors from six different departments to train an outstanding cohort of graduate students in the underlying theory and practice of cutting-edge biophysical techniques. The program's chief objectives are: (i) to provide enhanced training in the application of molecular biophysics in a rigorous and reproducible way to modern problems in human health and disease, (ii) to foster effective and inclusive teamwork, and (iii) to provide career development opportunities tailored to the goals of individual trainees. To achieve these objectives, selected trainees (6 in each year of the award, typically beginning in their 2nd year of study and supported for up to 2 years) will take a new two-semester gateway class that merges theory with team- based project design and implementation, participate in and help implement an interdepartmental biophysics seminar series that will showcase student-invited external speakers and trainee research on campus, and plan, develop, and implement Purdue's annual biophysics symposium called the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Biomolecular Galaxy. Examples of key activities that support the professional development of these trainees are exercises in teamwork built into program coursework and symposium planning, active development and implementation of detailed individual development plans reviewed and revised annually in collaboration with the mentor, personalized teaching and/or internship opportunities, a grant-writing class tailored to biophysical topics, training in the responsible conduct of research, and participation in the recruitment and retention of underrepresented and/or disabled students. By leveraging Purdue's expertise in Biology Education and self- assessment, the training program and its individual activities will be evaluated annually and refined to ensure that the program is meeting its objectives and the needs of the scientific community.
The Purdue Molecular Biophysics Training Program leverages the depth and experience of highly motivated biophysicists and education experts at Purdue University to train students in the use of cutting-edge techniques to generate high-resolution data from biomolecular systems critical for human health and disease. The program extends beyond a rigorous and innovative core curriculum to provide junior scientists with professional skills that will help them function as highly effective members of increasingly diverse research teams and responsible members of the broader scientific community.
