Program for Advanced Training in Cell Biology Research (PACeR)

About This Grant

PROJECT SUMMARY We propose to establish an interdisciplinary training grant called the Program for Advancing Training in Cell Biology Research (PACeR) at the University of Utah. With unique resources including a cryo-electron microscopy core, state-of-the-art cell imaging facilities, and a vibrant cell biology research community with 37 faculty members across 11 departments, the University of Utah offers an exceptional training environment in cell biology research. This training grant will provide infrastructure and support to an already strong cell biology research community, uniting cell biology researchers across campus and accelerating training of future scientists in this area. The goals of PACeR are to provide intentional and individualized mentorship and training for talented students to create the next leaders in cell biology and to create an environment/culture where trainees feel accepted and recognized as valuable members of the scientific community. These goals are achieved through coursework in cell biology, biostatistics, ethics, and responsible conduct of research, as well as trainee-specific activities, including: bimonthly PACeR group discussions, where trainees will work on presentations skills and receive individualized feedback on their project and presentation; a grant writing and reviewing program, in which trainees will review NIH grant applications in mock study section format as they prepare their own fellowship applications; mentorship training and opportunities to mentor undergraduate students; industry internships; and annual individualized development plan meetings designed to align research objectives with career goals. Most of PACeR’s programming will be intentionally limited to small groups to foster community and cohesiveness among trainees; however, we propose joint annual symposia with other training groups on campus for synergy, collaboration, and networking. Trainees will also interact and engage with scientists of all backgrounds as part of the Rising Stars Symposia and the award-winning University of Utah SACNAS Chapter. Trainees will enter PACeR from four distinct PhD programs, which matriculate an average of 52 training grant eligible students each year. The mentor pool comprises faculty with proven track records of research excellence and mentorship. Mentors have trained 262 PhD students over the past 10 years, and 96% of those trainees are currently pursuing research-related careers. The program will be overseen by a 6-member advisory committee (that includes the co-directors), and program evaluation will be conducted in a collaborative fashion between the advisory board and a centralized office that oversees all T32 training programs at our institution, using an evidence-based evaluation system. We are requesting support for eight predoctoral trainee positions (four in the first year). With its interdisciplinary approach, outstanding mentorship, and focus on cutting-edge research, the PACeR program is poised to produce world-class leaders in cell biology research, driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery at the University of Utah and beyond.