Metabolism and Nutrition Training Program

University Of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison WI

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY This renewal application seeks continued support for the successful Metabolism and Nutrition Training Program (MANTP). The fundamental rationale is to leverage the unique research and educational resources at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) to meet the need for the next generation of nutrition scientists and realize the promise of personalized nutrition by recruiting and preparing qualified predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees for biomedical science-related careers that impact the health of the Nation. The specific objectives of the MANTP are to: 1) Create an exceptional training environment that engages and educates predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees (MD and/or PhD) for 2- or 3-year appointments in collaborative, cross- disciplinary research, centering on themes of Digestive Biology, Macro- and micro-nutrient Metabolism, Gut Microbiome, Obesity and Disease, and Systems Biology. Our team of thirty-three well-funded trainers, from various basic, applied, or clinical departments, will provide customized training emphasizing state-of-the-art, integrative approaches to nutrition research. 2) Expand the trainees' knowledge base in multiple disciplines through instruction and discourse between trainees and trainers from diverse backgrounds to bring a broad array of perspectives and expertise to addressing nutrition-related human diseases. We propose a flexible didactic plan that encompasses interdisciplinary breadth and integrative research methods. Trainees will also receive comprehensive training on the rigor and reproducibility in all aspects of research, as well as in the responsible conduct of research. 3) Cultivate physician- and dietitian-scientists for careers in nutrition- related research. Our program will equip them with the skills necessary to conduct basic, applied, or translational hypothesis-based nutrition research through individually designed didactic and mentoring programs. 4) Enhance career competitiveness by providing a range of innovative professional development opportunities, including grant writing, mock study section reviewing proposals, trainee-specific interactions with visiting scientists from across the nation, collaborative retreats with the "Digestive Health Disease and Nutrition" T32 at the University of Chicago, and a “mock interview” program for senior postdocs as they transition to independent careers. These initiatives will increase trainees' exposure to translational research and provide networking opportunities that benefit their research and career advancement. 5) Recruit and retain underrepresented minority (URM) trainees for successful careers in nutrition-research. MANTP is committed to institutional, departmental, and programmatic efforts to recruit URM trainees and create inclusive climate that allow trainees of diverse backgrounds to thrive. With renewed support from the NIH, the MANTP will continue to expand and refine its mission in producing expertly trained scientists with PhD, MD, RDN/PhD and MD/PhD degrees who will make significant contributions as leaders in reducing the incidence of diet- related diseases.