Integrative Approaches to Explore Cellular Interactions in Neural Circuits

New York University School Of Medicine, New York NY

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Abstract

We propose to renew the training program Integrative Approaches to Explore Cellular Interactions in Neural Circuits. The goal of this program is to endow trainees from diverse research disciplines and scientific backgrounds with skills necessary for the study of neural circuits using multidisciplinary approaches and rigorous methodologies. This integrative program targets trainees with research interests at the interface of molecular/cellular and systems/behavioral neuroscience through its emphasis on rigorous statistical and quantitative approaches that span multiple levels of analysis and are applicable to multiple experimental models. Strong leadership from Jeremy Dasen, PhD, and newly added PD/PI, Katherine Nagel, PhD, will provide broad expertise in neural circuits and prepare trainees for scientific careers. They will lead trainees through a tailored curriculum including advanced coursework in the study of neural circuits; training in rigorous neuroscience research techniques and quantitative analysis; and mentorship in science communication and career planning. To encourage trainees to engage in modern approaches to the study of neural circuits, these program components will feature topics that span levels of inquiry from cell and molecular neurobiology to genetics to synaptic physiology and behavior and include discussion of rigorous analytical evaluation at each level of inquiry. We continue to provide advanced training in biostatistics through one-on-one meetings and feedback on experimental design from a statistician. Trainees will set goals ahead of these meetings to guide learning and evaluate success. This training program enables predoctoral students to prepare for the intensely collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of modern neuroscience research by providing: (a) high-quality scientific education in the fundamental principles of neurobiology and state-of-the-art techniques to study neural circuits; (b) mentoring that aids trainees’ progress toward their future careers in science, and (c) training in the professional skills that are necessary for career success, including critical reading, grant writing, oral presentation, leadership, management, and networking. Key components of this training grant include activities and workshops that enhance trainees’ ability to design rigorous experiments, use appropriate statistical methods, and enrich their quantitative literacy in the study of neural circuits. Four predoctoral trainees will be selected by an Executive Committee on the basis of their excellence in research, interest in neural circuits, and potential for future leadership. Each trainee will be appointed for one year and will continue to receive mentoring and career development support in subsequent years. Thirty-five faculty with NIH-supported research programs from the NYU School of Medicine and NYU Arts and Science campus will participate in this multidisciplinary training program in the supportive NYU training environment.