Interdisciplinary Training in Genome Sciences

University Of Washington, Seattle WA

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT We request funds to continue the Interdisciplinary Training Program in Genome Sciences at the University of Washington, now in its thirtieth year. The program focuses on preparing pre- and postdoctoral trainees for a research career in genomics and computational biology with an emphasis on translational research. We have been delighted by the wide spectrum of talented individuals this program has attracted to genomics research, and the continued success of these individuals is the best evidence of our program’s effectiveness. Past trainees have written on average ~4 papers (~2 as first author), many of which are exceptionally impactful and have altered the research trajectories of their labs, this program, or their broader fields. The overwhelming majority of past trainees have remained in science careers, and ~40% of postdoctoral trainees currently hold faculty positions. In the coming five years, our program’s trainees will engage in projects that include discovering how a genome encodes the information for RNAs, proteins and its own structure and replication; measuring and analyzing sequence variation; developing technologies for high-throughput experimental assays including-next generation and single-cell sequencing; and generating computational methods, including advanced AI tools, to analyze genomic variants and their impact on mRNA and protein function. As these research challenges demand interdisciplinary approaches and multidisciplinary collaborations, one goal of this program is to attract individuals trained in computer science, statistics, physics, and engineering to biological research. Another goal is to train cellular and molecular biologists to incorporate reproducible, genomic-based quantitative analyses in their research to allow them to effectively collaborate at this interdisciplinary interface. Given the wide diversity in educational backgrounds and career goals among our trainees, the program emphasizes highly individualized training programs and interdisciplinary research. A diverse, well-funded, multidisciplinary group of 49 faculty drawn from the ranks of junior to senior investigators comprises the training team, selected for their involvement in genome analysis and their strong record of collaborative interactions. The trainees are also exposed to discussions on ethical research conduct and the ethical, legal, and social implications of genomic research. We will continue to expand our program in genomics, instrumentation development, data science, computational biology, and statistical genomics. We request funds to train 12 predoctoral and 4 postdoctoral fellows per year. The trainees will emerge with the skills necessary for success in the academic and biomedical research environment of the 21st century made possible by advances in genomics.