Training in Precision Environmental Health Sciences

Baylor College Of Medicine, Houston TX

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

Precision Environmental Health seeks to understand how environmental exposures influence human health and disease, and use this knowledge for new prevention and intervention strategies. The Training in Precision Environmental Health Sciences (TPEHS) Program is a joint initiative of Baylor College of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center Houston School of Public Health and the School of Biomedical Informatics and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center-the latter two new for this renewal, further expanding our Program. These premier research-intensive institutions in the Texas Medical Center have joined together to address the need for a Precision Environmental Health workforce of tomorrow by providing training at the intersection of Genomics/epigenomics, Environmental Health, and Data Science (GxExD). TPEHS, located in the world’s largest medical center, is at the vanguard of one of the leading environmental health sciences research communities in the country. Our Program leverages multidisciplinary, multi- institutional collaborations including the NIEHS P30 Gulf Coast Center for Precision Environmental Health, P42 Superfund Research Center and the NIMHD/NIEHS P50 Center of Excellence in Environmental Health Disparities. TPEHS Program Objectives are for trainees to 1) acquire fundamental knowledge in Genomics/epigenomics, Environmental Health, and Data Science; 2) become proficient at integrating concepts of GxExD into their research; and 3) gain the necessary skills and tools to leverage TPEHS training to achieve their career objectives. This T32 grant will provide stipends for4 predoctoral and 3 postdoctoral trainees each year. Strong institutional commitment is evidenced by institutional support for an additional 4 predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees, expanding the cohort size and increasing TPEHS impact. The Core Curriculum for predoctoral trainees includes didactic coursework in Genetics/Epigenetics, Environmental Health/Toxicology, Data Science, Responsible Conduct of Research, and training in Rigor and Reproducibility. All trainees are required to take a “Big Data Foundations” course and engage in structured Career Development activities and networking opportunities. The TPEHS has 45 well-funded training faculty, experienced Program Director (PD) and Co-PDs from all participating institutions who are guided by Steering and External Advisory Committees and trainee feedback, and receive administrative support from the Gulf Coast Consortia. Our trainees have a strong cohort identity, and publish in both high-impact general interest and top- tier specialty environmental health journals. At the end of the program, all TPEHS trainees have a deep understanding of GxExD research, the skills needed to be effective Precision Environmental Health researchers, and are successful when they leave the program moving into careers in academia, medicine, and industry.