Multidisciplinary HIV Training Program

Brigham And Women'S Hospital, Boston MA

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

The goal of this training grant program is to prepare outstanding M.D, M.D-Ph.D. and Ph.D. trainees for careers as scientific leaders in HIV research. Despite enormous progress over more than 40 years towards reducing the morbidity and mortality from HIV/AIDS, substantial challenges remain. These include developing a safe and effective vaccine; developing an HIV cure; improving the treatment and management of opportunistic infections such as tuberculosis that burden patients with HIV in resource-limited settings; managing the threat of antiretroviral drug resistance; reducing HIV-associated immune activation that leads to end-organ disease and accelerates aging; and improving long-acting antiretroviral drugs for treatment and prevention of HIV. Progress on these fronts requires basic and translational research to further our understanding of the molecular biology, pathogenesis, immunology, prevention and therapeutics of HIV/AIDS. Over the past 35 years this program has trained 104 post-doctoral fellows, the majority of whom have gone on to leadership positions in academia, industry and government. This program will provide in-depth laboratory experience in a specific research area of HIV-related virology, immunology, epidemiology, molecular genetics, molecular therapeutics, genomics and/or systems biology. Criteria for selecting trainees will include prior training record, aptitude for research and demonstrated commitment to a research career. Applicants will be selected by a Training Advisory Committee (TAC); 5 post-doctoral trainees will be selected annually and appointed for a minimum of 2 years. Basic elements of the program include: 1) in-depth research training through laboratory investigation of a specific scientific question in a particular area of HIV research under mentorship of a senior investigator; 2) a didactic program consisting of appropriately chosen courses specific to the trainee’s career goals; 3) frequent exposure to seminars, workshops and colloquia related to HIV; regular review of progress by individual Research Advisory Committees and the TAC. In addition, instruction in the preparation of competitive proposals for funding, with a particular emphasis on applications for K and other career development awards, including foundation awards, will be provided. Independently funded junior and senior faculty at these institutions constitute the training faculty, representing various HIV-related disciplines. The faculty collaborate extensively with one another on HIV research and will collaborate in directing this training program. Faculty will receive formal mentor training and periodic refreshers to support effective mentorship, foster independence and promote professional development. The Harvard University Center for AIDS Research and the Harvard Medical School Clinical and Translational Science Center (Harvard Catalyst) provide additional institutional resources that enrich the scientific experience and career development of our trainees and faculty.