The CIRM training program at UC Santa Cruz is operating as proposed, with a growing number of fellows engaged in stem cell research and related activities. During award Year 2, four additional pre-doctoral and two additional postdoctoral fellows were selected based on evaluation by a committee of external reviewers. The new trainees joined our previous cohort of four pre- and four postdoctoral fellows, most of whom remained in program Year 2, as expected. Trainees focused on pluripotent and germline stem cells, as well as stem cells of the brain, blood, breast and other tissues, aiming to provide a better understanding of development, aging, and cancer. CIRM-funded fellows presented their research in the form of published papers and by attending local, national, and international meetings and conferences.

In addition to performing stem cell research under the mentorship of faculty members across several departments, trainees also participated in coursework, career development, patient engagement, and community outreach. All three core classes, specifically designed for CIRM fellows, were offered: BME 278 Stem Cell Biology, BME 273 Stem Cell Epigenomics, and BIOL 247 Stem Cell Ethics. The vast majority of trainees fulfilled their training requirements by participating in these classes. Outreach and patient advocacy activities included Jacob’s Heart and Treehouse Childhood Cancer events, presentations at Alisal High School and hosting laboratory tours in collaboration with WiSE (Women in Science and Engineering). Fellows also pursued career development and leadership training by participating in and co-organizing stem cell club, as well as workshops in proactive DEI; scientific communication; and equity minded mentorship. Mentors participated in mentor training during the program year, in accordance with program requirements. The annual program review by our External Advisory Board is scheduled for the second week of December.

Interest in the training program was strong, with a total of 18 (4 postdoc and 14 pre-doc) applications received for Year 2 appointments. New trainees were introduced to their peers in the annual January kick-off meeting that serves both informational and community-building roles.