Training the Next Generation of Chemical Biologists

University Of Minnesota, Minneapolis MN

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Linked publications & trials

Abstract

The University of Minnesota Chemistry-Biology Interface training grant’s mission is to provide rigorous and interdisciplinary training to biomedical scientists. We provide trainees with the skills to cross traditional boundaries, think critically, and understand and conduct research at the chemistry and biology interface, with the training grant appointment typically occurring in program years 2 and 3. Trainees will develop as professional scientists in career awareness, knowledge of chemical biology, rigor and reproducibility, ethical conduct of research, and appreciate contributions of scientists from all scientific backgrounds. Success in achieving these programmatic goals will be evaluated through quantitative metrics collected with a validated instrument. Outcomes include communicating high-impact cross-disciplinary research, increased professional soft skills, transitioning to careers in the biomedical workforce, and increased self-efficacy. This mission will be accomplished through the following objectives: 1) Provide trainees with interdisciplinary training at the interface of chemistry and biology. Training is accomplished by a combination of coursework from three departments and by a cross-training experience involving a co-mentor and a research experience of at least three months in the co-mentor’s laboratory. 2) Promote rigor and reproducibility in research using a combination of an online introduction, classroom instruction, interactive workshops, and discussion panels. 3) Expose students to cutting-edge science at the interface of chemistry and biology through seminars focused on this type of interfacial science (Chemical Biology Colloquium, CBC), empowering them to organize a symposium focused on the chemical biology interface, and travel to attend conferences. 4) Enhance communication skills of trainees by providing opportunities to present their research in different formats at the CBC, national or international conferences, in flash talks, and at company/academic site visits. 5) Educate and train students about the range of career opportunities available for scientists with backgrounds at the chemistry and biology interface via workshops, panels, site visits and UMN career services. 6) Stimulate interest and promote our training program by involving students, faculty, and industrial scientists from local high schools, four-year colleges, and companies in training activities. 7) Recruit and retain scientists carrying out research at the chemistry and biology interface in our program through targeted and validated training activities, including on-campus recruiting efforts at MNext. Research in this program spans a range of topics from developing chemical technologies and discovering new biology, to the study and treatment of diseases including cancer, aging, and infection. The 31 training faculty members are a highly collaborative group with a rich history of joint publications and are committed to devoting the effort it takes to effectively mentor our ten trainees with a breadth of skills and scientific backgrounds.