Molecular & Environmental Toxicology Predoctoral Training Program

University Of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison WI

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

The Molecular and Environmental Toxicology T32 (MET-T32) involves dozens of mentors, each with outstanding training records and well-funded research programs. These trainers cover a variety of environmental health science research areas and employ tools, such as data sciences, bioinformatics, developmental biology, epidemiology, structural biology, high throughput technology, stem cell biology, mammalian genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry. Predoctoral trainees are supported for two years, early in their graduate study. After three laboratory rotations funded by the University of Wisconsin, the trainees are selected for the MET-T32 and complete several “challenges” that prime their ability to understand, develop and generate high content and “omic” data. Among these challenges is a Biotechnology Scholar/Intern (BSI) program that integrates each trainee into a state-of-the-art facility applying cutting edge technologies to current biological problems (NexGen sequencing, Mass Spectroscopy, Gene Editing, etc.). This is followed by additional challenges in short workshops in “Data and Software Carpentry, and Genomic Analysis.” Additional challenges provide the underpinnings and formal training to support their success in the environmental health sciences and provide opportunities to present scientific information in a rigorous and clear manner. In parallel, trainees, begin molecular toxicology research in laboratories from investigators from dozens of unique departments housed in multiple colleges on the UW Campus. The selection of trainees and oversight of the grant will be carried out by the Training Grant Leadership (TGL) which consists of the director, the deputy director, and one additional trainer. In addition, a number of subcommittees monitor progress of the trainee. These include, Trainee Tracking and Achievement Committee (TAC), Curriculum Committee (CC), Candidate Review Committee (CRC), Network Committee (NC), Trainee Liaison Committee (TLC), and Thesis Committee. This proposal seeks support for twelve predoctoral trainees. All trainees are also required to attend a weekly environmental health research seminar, a yearly symposia/retreat, and complete any additional courses required by their graduate program. Everyone will be trained as a lifelong learner through their participation in multiple continuing education courses and in scientific symposia related to environmental health. To aid our trainees in important careers choices, a practicum opportunity is offered in teaching, providing independent funding in later years and an opportunity to experience first-hand the roles and responsibilities of a classroom educator. The recruitment of underrepresented populations to this MET-T32 is given high priority and is facilitated by a NIEHS-funded Summer Minority Research Program for undergraduates (SROP). Upon completion of the MET-T32 training program, graduates usually undertake a period of additional postdoctoral training, or assume responsible career positions in toxicology in academic, governmental, or other public or private research institutions, or industrial laboratories.