Experimental Neurotherapeutics Training Program

University Of Rochester, Rochester NY

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Since 1990, The University of Rochester’s Department of Neurology has trained over 80 post-residency physicians and other post-doctoral clinical neuroscientists in its Experimental Neurotherapeutics (ExNT) (NINDS T32) Training Program. The opportunities to translate neuroscience discoveries into clinical trials and clinical care continue to increase rapidly. This translation requires a cadre of specialty-trained clinician neuroscientists responsive to the increasing pace of scientific discoveries, the growing burden of neurological disease, and the emerging approaches and techniques to accelerate therapeutic development. Rochester’s ExNT Training Program, now in its 34th year, is prepared to meet the challenges of a tidal wave of new treatments and opportunities. We will expand our world-class roster of Program Faculty (from 38 to 48) to provide a robust training environment across the increasingly subspecialized fields within neurology. We have changed the mPIs to include a Biostatistician who has been a program mentor since 1990 and have appointed a new Lead Biostatistician and 3 additional biostatisticians to maximize the scientific rigor of training. The proposal builds on the momentum of our prior funding period by training in new areas of cutting edge neurotherapeutics research, strengthening mentorship training, utilizing novel approaches to teaching, and infusing the curriculum with translational research principles stemming from initiatives of this program. The curriculum covers core didactics in experimental neurotherapeutics and an integrated approach that combines face-to-face, online and hybrid learning methods to serve multiple needs and ensure comprehensive education and customized training opportunities for each trainee. Training will occur in a structured environment with a multifaceted mentor team (including Clinical and Biostatistical Mentors) and guided by a Research Career Development Plan. We will increase the perspective of role models by establishing a T32 Alumni and Collaborator Council which will contribute to program seminars and workshops and expose trainees to an increasing number of perspectives, career paths, and opportunities. The program is also strengthened by collaborating with the Experimental Neurotherapeutics program at the NINDS and by piloting a research exchange program with trainees from other institutions. We have also appointed an experienced Program Evaluator and an External Advisory Committee to enhance our approach to evaluating the program, trainees, and mentors. This application seeks support for 4 post-residency trainees per year with 2-4 new trainees accepted into the program annually. The training program infrastructure is also utilized by trainees supported by other funding sources, so that a class of 6-12 fellows are training at any given time. This ExNT Training Program will continue to build on its history and train the next generation of independently funded leaders in experimental neurotherapeutics who will transform the research landscape and accelerate clinical trials that maximize impact, access, and enrollment for all people with neurological disease.