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 BS and/or BS plus MS 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 to 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 to 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
