Will never be the same twice
Architects
Overview
Most Tri-Institutional Molecular Mycology and Pathogenesis Training Program (Tri-I MMPTP) applicants are recent recipients of doctoral degrees in biomedical sciences, physicians who have completed residency training, or current postdoctoral researchers with exceptional potential. The program's postdoctoral fellows are trained to develop independent research programs utilizing non-pathogenic fungi as model systems or investigating the fungal pathogenicity and host defenses of human or plant pathogenic fungi. In addition, there is expertise in fungal systematics, phylogenetics, evolution, and genomics. Many research projects will bridge one or more of these areas. Additionally, trainees are able to move from one laboratory to another, combining these conceptual domains. We have discovered the value and synergy of ideas that result from facilitating interaction and meeting to discuss research progress and to share perspectives and methods. A proven concept underlying our practice of multidisciplinary interaction is that clinical and basic researchers, and plant and animal mycologists, together discover new approaches that are mutually beneficial. As a result, our trainees become broadly knowledgeable and versatile and more attractive to prospective employers. Based on the evidence, Tri-Institutional MMPTP graduates are prepared to become successful scientists and are also capable of applying for grants, establishing independent research programs, and assuming positions of leadership in academia, government, and industry.
Unique Features of the Program
The following is a brief list of some unique features of the Tri-Institutional MMPTP:
Fungal Research Tracks
With guidance from their mentor(s) and other Tri-Institutional MMPTP faculty, trainees will devote themselves full-time to one or more original research projects in addition to any requisite courses or other activities required to accomplish their goals. (Physicians in the program may devote the equivalent of one afternoon per week to clinical service to maintain their proficiency.) As trainees complete the program and make the transition to independent scientists, their training is expected to result in the completion of one or more original research projects leading to the publication of several papers and presentations at national or international meetings. At the conclusion of the training period, trainees are expected to apply for individual grant support and faculty status.
There are two types of postdoctoral research training programs. Depending upon their previous doctoral education, trainees are assigned to either Track I or II. Track I is designed for the trainee with one of the following degree(s) in biomedical or plant science: PhD, MD and PhD, DSc, or an equivalent doctorate earned through rigorous courses and an original research dissertation. Track II is designed for trainees with the MD degree (or DO, PharmD, DDS, DVM, or other clinical doctorate). Track II is subdivided into basic and clinical research plans, Track IIB and Track IIC, respectively. Follow the links below for a synopsis of each training option.
Mentors and Research Advisory Committees
The most critical priority for every trainee entering the program is to select a primary research mentor(s) and an individual Research Advisory Committee (RAC). The process of selecting a mentor is flexible. While most trainees enter the program with the clear intention of working with a particular mentor, others may rotate through several laboratories before making a decision. After the mentor and trainee are paired, with guidance from the Tri-Institutional MMPTP Executive Committee, they will select an RAC of three to five faculty members. (Each RAC includes senior and junior faculty members, and ideally, representatives from different research areas. Faculty members who are not part of the Tri-Institutional MMPTP may also serve on RACs.) The primary purpose of the RAC is to provide the trainee with the additional expertise and advice necessary to guarantee his or her success. In addition, the RAC provides counsel and assistance in writing grants and assistance in securing a permanent position.
After selecting a mentor and RAC and establishing a project(s), the trainee will begin the research. Required courses and other activities should be accomplished at the earliest convenient time. The mentor will provide weekly, and sometimes daily, feedback and guidance. The trainee, his or her mentor, and RAC will convene to review progress and address problems every six months. At least two weeks prior to these meetings, the trainee will submit to the RAC members a written report, which may include a manuscript in preparation. The meeting itself will typically last 60-90 minutes, allowing the trainee to present an oral summary of the project followed by questions and discussion. Once yearly, the mentor will submit a report to the Executive Committee, which will conduct an annual review of each trainee.
Required Activities
In both Track I and II, the paramount activity of each postdoctoral trainee is the mentored research project. However, the Tri-Institutional MMPTP has designed several activities to complement the research experience. During the three years that most trainees are supported by the program, concurrent with the research, they will accomplish the following complementary goals and activities:
Box 3054 Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710 | Tel: 919 684 4008