The Summer Institute hosted by the Augusta University (AU) aims to enhance basic and clinical/translational research skills using functional and translational genomics techniques. The goal of this program is to train junior-level faculty to do research related to blood disorders such as hemoglobinopathies, white blood cell and platelet diseases. Functional and translational genomic approaches will be used to investigate mechanisms of gene regulation and proteomics to study blood cell function in health and disease. In addition, Mentees will be introduced to translational approaches for health services research. During the Institute, Mentees will learn how to access public databases and to perform basic data mining procedures.
The program objectives include:
- Providing hands-on bench research training in the areas of cell and molecular biology and proteomics.
- Teaching practical approaches to design and conduct translational clinical research.
- Establishing partnerships between Mentees and Mentors based on mutual research interests.
- Provide an opportunity for Mentees to compete for Small Research Project pilot funding to support future extramural grant applications.
- Conducting a grants workshop in collaboration with NHLBI staff to assist Mentees with developing a research grant and advise on identifying funding sources to promote a sustainable and independent research program for career advancement.
- Teach scientific writing skills to improve success of peer-reviewed publications.
- Peer-mentoring and social networks to facilitate scientific collaboration, professional development, and social support.
How does the Augusta University FTG-PRIDE program work?
- This all-expense-paid training opportunity brings participants to Augusta University for 2 to 3 weeks for two summers
- Mentor-Mentee partnerships will be chosen based on
- Mutual research interests,
- Mentor’s experience in research and grant writing, and
- Establishing long-term collaborations.
- Didactic curricula designed by teaching faculty from multiple disciplines.
- Special emphasis will be placed on the development of grantsmanship skills and specific research projects with mentors to improve fundability.
- Mentees will make a visit to the mentor's institution and participate in an annual PRIDE workshop in Washington, DC at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.