The goals for establishing the Lundquist Institute CIRM training program are threefold: 1) to create a stem cell-focused program at TLI that will enable to recruit and train researchers in stem cell biology and regenerative medicine, its translational significance, the underlying ethical considerations involved, “bench-to-bedside” translation, and commercialization strategies; 2) to educate the public, with a specific focus on South Bay, on the biology and ethics of stem cell research and keep the community updated on the technological advances in the field; and 3) to retain the trained stem cell researchers by providing access to the latest emerging companies based locally at TLI. Currently, the TLI CIRM training program has recruited and is supporting 7 postdoctoral fellows and 4 graduate students in the first period of this award. The scientific projects span different aspects of stem cell research and different organ systems (immune system, lung, brain, pancreas, etc.). The scope of these projects span disease modeling, gene editing approaches, as well as gene and cell therapy. The trainees are mentored by world renowned experts in developmental biology and stem cell research who have expertise in germ cells, human embryonic stem cell (hESC), and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) culture and differentiation.
A set of courses and training modules took place in this first period. Didactic courses in biostatistics, responsible conduct of research as well as technology transfer and commercialization were implemented. Basic stem cell coursework has been planned to take place in year 2. Furthermore, CIRM scholars in this period participated in training and outreach opportunities through the high school summer program as well as the little Einstein’s program initiated by the Lundquist Institute. Many trainees have attended national and international meetings where they presented their work and earned awards and recognitions for their work. The trainees also attended the monthly president’s lecture series, IWI monthly lecture series, where several renowned stem cell scientists were invited to speak. In addition, many of the trainees presented their work in progress at the bi-monthly research in progress forum. CIRM trainees, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, have selected or are in the process of selecting a mentoring committee. All trainees are then expected to meet with their mentoring committee to assess progress, career goals and individual development plans. Based on this, the trainees will submit an annual progress report that will be evaluated by the steering committee, and based on which funding for additional years would be granted. Our goal is to eventually lead CIRM fellows to achieve their goals and become significant players in stem cell research and regenerative medicine.