The long-term objective of this program is to train a few selected future scientists in a broad approach to solving reproductive problems encompassing both molecular and organismic biology. Scientists trained in this manner will be able to use a broad array of approaches to address important basic and applied questions in modern reproductive biology. Trainees admitted to this program will work in the laboratory of at least two of the training faculty to ensure that they are adept in several state-of-the-art techniques. Research projects available for trainee participation range from very basic studies using recombinant DNA procedures, gene transfer and production of transgenic animals to the application of basic research to solve major problems in reproductive biology, such as development of specific biochemical methods for destruction of endocrine cells.
Predoctoral trainees will enter the program with a B.S. and/or B.S. plus M.S. degrees. They will be required to take a rigorous schedule of courses tailored to fulfill the needs of individual students while ensuring an adequate background in cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, physiology, grantsmanship, and experimental design and statistics. In addition, a course entitled "Science and Ethics" developed by our bioethicist, Dr. Bernard Rollin, is required for all trainees. This course deals with scientific integrity and well being of research animals. During the early part of their program, predoctoral trainees will assist faculty and more advanced students with their research in order to become familiar with methodologies needed for their dissertation studies. It is anticipated that these students will require 3-5 years to complete their degrees and will be supported by this grant for the first two years of their graduate program.
Postdoctoral trainees are anticipated to have a PhD and/or a DVM. Postdoctoral trainees will take a limited number of courses, such as Planning Research and Grant Proposals, and/or Science and Ethics, to fulfill any deficiencies in their previous training. Initially, they also will assist other trainees and faculty with research projects to become familiar with techniques they anticipate using for their own research projects.
As a pre- or postdoctoral trainee progresses, she/he will be expected to become leader of a research project(s) and be responsible for planning and execution of the project, and publication of the results. Each aspect of the project(s) will be carefully reviewed with the mentor and in group discussions with colleagues. Postdoctoral trainees will spend 2-4 years in training, the first two of which will be supported by this grant. After completion of the program, trainees will be qualified to assume positions as research scientists in the academic community, biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, human in vitro fertilization clinics, or government research laboratories. Finally, a rigorous and successful plan for attracting ethnic minorities was initiated several years ago.
For further information, please contact: Dr. T.M. Nett, phone: 970-491-3456
