Predoctoral Training Grant in Pharmacology

University Of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Abstract

Support for an interdisciplinary Graduate Pharmacology Training Program, is proposed to prepare students for productive careers in disciplines where fundamental knowledge of quantitative and systems pharmacology is required. Alumni from a similar training program at Penn have gone on to academia, industry, regulatory science and consulting, to name a few of the variety of opportunities training in pharmacology provides. Our Predoctoral Training Program trains Pharmacology Graduate Group (PGG) students in classic principles of pharmacology including pharmacokinetics, dynamics, drug-receptor interactions as well as in emerging fields of proteomics and metabalomics, biologics and cell therapies. The PGG is supported by an interdepartmental group of 50 PTP faculty from 22 departments in 5 Schools of the University of Pennsylvania. The Office of Biomedical Graduate Studies (BGS) ensures curricular development, quality control and uniform admission standards across all Graduate Groups, including PGG. Direct management of the Pharmacology Training Program is done by a three-person Leadership Committee that, in corrdination with the Executive Committee of the PGG, defines and reviews policy and selects trainees. PTP Faculty membership is governed by three criteria: (1) expertise in a relevant field of study, (2) significant contribution to training, and (3) extramural funding to support trainees. Admission of students to Graduate Programs is a tiered decision, first by the PGG admissions committee, then by a BGS-wide admissions committee. Subsequent apppointment to the pharmacology training grant is decided by its Leadership Committee. Support for each trainee will encompass their second and third years of graduate school. The first year is fully supported by BGS. Trainees must re- apply after the first 12 months and while most students are re-appointed for a second 12-month period, this intermediate evaluation enhances progress and productivity. Prior to appointment , students must successfully complete required courses in Cell and Molecular Biology, Fundamentals of Pharmacology and Medical pharmacology and Human physiology and Statistics. Coursework extends over 1.0 year with lab rotations ending after 1.5 years. All students will take a yearly course on the responsible conduct of scientific research. Students will also receive training through seminars, journal clubs, annual retreats, scientific meetings, oral and poster presentations, and social events that encourage interactions. Successful completion of a comprehensive "Candidacy" examination marks the start of independent research toward the dissertation. Thesis research is conducted under the supervision of a faculty advisor and is monitored by a thesis committee and the PGG Academic Review Committee. The dissertation defense takes place when the thesis advisor and committee concer that the body of work is complete. Based on the number of potential trainees, and the uniqueness of this training program at Penn, we request support for 12 predoctoral trainees/year for the next 5 years.