Mark Mercola
Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute
Status: Active

Proposal Abstract as Submitted by Applicant

The Burnham Institute proposes a CIRM type II program to train pre-doctoral PhD students and post-doctoral scientists. Currently, Burnham Institute faculty direct a large stem cell research and teaching enterprise that comprises over 100 biologists, chemists, engineers and clinicians with extensive expertise in stem cell biology and in allied disciplines dedicated to stem cell-based therapies for cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, hematopoietic and metabolic disorders. Additionally, the Institute has made substantial technology, recruitment and infrastructure investments as part of its commitment to stem cell biology. Our training curriculum will incorporate 1) an intensive hESC training course that has been run for two years and offers practical, hands-on instruction, 2) additional courses in stem cell, development, animal models of disease, bioinformatics and chemical biology, 3) training in ethical and legal implications of stem cells, and 4) laboratory research. Courses will be open to other CIRM program trainees in the La Jolla area and students will benefit from our inter-institutional research and training collaborations. PhD degrees will be granted through our existing training partnership with UCSD and through an independent Burnham PhD program.

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.