Eukaryotic Gene Regulation (EGR) Training Program

PROJECT SUMMARY Gene regulation is the foundation of nearly all aspects of biology and human disease. The Eukaryotic Gene Regulation (EGR) Predoctoral Training Program will train a future generation of scientists in experimental, molecular and computational sciences to understanding the mechanisms of eukaryotic gene regulation. EGR connects and further develops trainees and faculty from five established graduate programs: Biochemistry, Microbiology and Molecular Biology (BMMB), Chemistry (CHEM), Biology (BIOL), Molecular Cellular and Integrative Biosciences (MCIBS), and Bioinformatics and Genomics (BGEN). The EGR training program builds upon a successful 5-year period of prior support and is led by a close-knit group of 22 highly productive faculty. We seek funding for 4 new trainees/yr, supported for two years each in the 2nd and 3rd years. A generous institutional match will fund 1-2 additional trainees/yr, strengthening recruitment efforts to diversify the trainee pool and allow for a strong cohort of 8-10 predoctoral students/yr. Students will be prepared for laboratory training in gene regulation through a carefully crafted curriculum, including foundational courses in molecular sciences and specialty courses in gene regulation, computation, statistics, and ethical and rigorous research methods. Students will be trained by faculty and interact with peers using structural biology, computation and genomics, molecular and cellular biology and biophysical techniques in their research, preparing them to perform outstanding cross-disciplinary research. Activities include weekly meetings to build presentation and data analysis skills, monthly trainee-run meetings, a yearly retreat, and cohort-strengthening activities. Comprehensive and continuous RCR and rigor and reproducibility instruction are provided by the faculty and are incorporated into activities throughout the training program. Exemplary institutional match supports enhancements and innovations to the current EGR, including internship opportunities through an industry-academic partnership and a new Alumni Mentor Program for career development. Trainee leadership skills will be built through student-organized monthly meetings, and a new peer mentoring program, which we predict will contribute to increased retention through improved trainee satisfaction and feeling of belonging. An evidence-based assessment plan has been developed to track program effectiveness and guide future improvements. Mentor training and close attention to student progress and tracking will improve the overall experience for students and help recruit future cohorts. Trainees will obtain a thorough understanding of the scientific process, learn to conduct research responsibly and rigorously, gain fluency in innovative research methodologies, learn to utilize bioinformatics and statistical tools in advancing genome-wide experimental approaches. The impact of EGR will extend well beyond those supported by this grant by allowing unfunded students to participate in the training activities and by modeling best practices in training, RCR and rigor and reproducibility instruction and preparing a diverse cohort for careers in the biomedical sciences.