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T1-00002: Training Program in Stem Cell Research at UCSF

Application Number:  T1-00002

Proposal Abstract as Submitted by Applicant

Stem cell research holds great promise for developing cell-based therapies for common diseases. Scientists at UCSF have contributed new insights that have enhanced our understanding of stem cell biology, including identification of neural stem cells, derivation and characterization of greatly-improved human embryonic stem cell lines, and application of innovative islet transplantation methods to treat diabetes. These discoveries highlight the need for scientists who can bridge basic and clinical sciences to fully realize the clinical potential of stem cells. The goal of the UCSF Training Program in Stem Cell Research is to train CIRM scholars in basic research who are cognizant of clinical needs, as well as scholars in clinical disciplines who are grounded in the basic science of stem cell research. We will achieve this long-term goal by: (1) capitalizing on our strong, multidisciplinary faculty engaged in stem cell-related research to provide training in neural stem cells, cardiac repair and regeneration, angiogenesis, diabetes, developmental biology, hematopoiesis and cancer stem cells, mesenchymal biology, bioengineering, and human embryonic stem cells; (2) exploiting our world-class graduate programs to recruit talented pre-doctoral students to stem cell research; (3) attracting top PhD and MD/PhD graduates to postdoctoral careers in stem cell research at UCSF; (4) providing a mechanism for outstanding clinical fellows to obtain rigorous training in basic stem cell research. This program will include three major training components: (1) didactic coursework in developmental and stem cell biology, embryology, human disease and transplantation; (2) training in the rigorous ethics required to address difficult questions surrounding stem cell research and regenerative medicine; and (3) a mentored research program under the guidance of leading basic science and/or clinical stem cell investigators as preparation for a career aimed toward treating human diseases. Training will occur in an environment enriched by opportunities to present research, attend journal clubs and retreats and learn from outstanding scientists through formal seminars. We will also extend our courses and training to those who attend neighboring institutions in order to drive stem cell research forward and train the next generation of stem cell scientists, clinicians and technicians.

Benefit of this Program to California

This program will benefit the people and the state of California by providing high-quality training in the scientific, clinical, social, and ethical aspects of stem-cell research to the scientists and clinicians who will develop and apply future therapies in this rapidly emerging field.