T32 University of Rochester Aging and Alzheimer's disease Training Program

University Of Rochester, Rochester NY

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

While fewer older adults are dying from heart disease and cancer, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia’s (ADRD) have risen 145% in the last two decades. Progress to find a solution to this public health crisis has been slow. To help accelerate progress in the understanding, treatment, and prevention of ADRD, this application is for establishment of an NIA Institutional National Research Service Award (T32) titled, “University of Rochester Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease Training Program (UR-AADTP)”. Consistent with longstanding and established strengths at the University of Rochester in foundational and translational research on aging and ADRD, our goal is to accelerate the development and application of strategies to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with ADRD. We seek support for six predoctoral fellows (3 slots in year 1) in basic and translational research programs who will undergo an innovative curriculum that emphasizes interdisciplinary science and informs their training through interactions with people affected by dementia and their health care providers. The UR-AADTP’s primary objective is to develop a cadre of early-stage scientists with the depth and breadth of knowledge, skills, appreciation, and experience necessary to establish careers as independent investigators in the area of dementia research; to work in an interdisciplinary environment designed to aggressively translate research to practice; and to reduce the toll of cognitive disorders in later life. The UR- AADTP T32 has these specific aims: Aim 1: We will recruit a diverse group of highly qualified predoctoral trainees who are committed to careers in aging research, retain them until their training is complete, and support their successful transitions to post- graduate academic positions. The trainees’ diversity will be reflected in their racial/ethnic backgrounds as well as the range of scientific disciplines and areas of research interest that they represent. Aim 2: Through courses, seminars and workshops, and mentored research experiences, we will provide UR- AADTP T32 trainees with a firm foundation in the theories and methods of basic and early translational aging research that are necessary for study of dementia pathogenesis and treatment development. Aim 3: By fostering interactions between trainees and faculty members trained in different theoretical and methodological approaches to aging and dementia research, we will stimulate interdisciplinary collaborations in aging research that accelerate the progress of dementia research, treatment and prevention. Aim 4: Through structured exposure to clinical settings, people affected by dementia, and the providers that care for them, trainees will appreciate the connections between research and practice necessary to accelerate the development of effective approaches to illness prevention and mitigation. Aim 5: We will rigorously evaluate the program and its participants (faculty and trainees).