Program Plan

SPII is a novel program for advanced training in innate immunity, with special emphasis on the intracellular signaling pathways that mediate early host responses to infection and malignancy, as well as other inflammatory responses. UMSOM provides a rich training environment, with remarkable expertise among the basic science and clinical TGF who have a well-documented history of collaboration on grants and publications. The primary mission of this innovative training program is to nurture a cadre of exceptionally trained young scientists who will enter the work force and make pivotal advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which innate immune responses are mediated. Analysis of the complex signaling pathways that regulate innate host responses and how distinct signaling pathways intersect to alter host cellular physiology and biochemistry are key to development of new drugs to treat diseases such as sepsis.

As a result of their unique inter- and multi-disciplinary training experiences, we expect that our SPII trainees will enter the work force with a heightened level of intellectual maturity and inquisitiveness, state-of-the-art technical skills, and ethical responsibility required for future careers in academia, medicine, and industry, or as science educators and administrators. In addition to our academic training, additional courses in scientific writing, research ethics, reproducibility and rigor in scientific approaches, biostatistics, and other advanced courses are offered. In addition, the UMSOM offers additional courses in professional development.

All of our trainees have a mentor and advisory committee that meets regularly to advise our trainees on their projects and to discuss their ultimate plans. A series of “Scientific Careers” talks by individuals from various backgrounds is ongoing and enables our trainees to be exposed to consideration of non-academic positions in science. Attendance at journal clubs and seminars is an integral part of the training program, and provide opportunities to practice and improve communication skills.

Pre- and postdoctoral trainees in the SPII Training Program have extraordinary didactic and “hands on” training opportunities that are designed to enhance their educational experience. While our expectations are very high for SPII trainees, we also expect that they will develop into first-rate independent researchers.

Eligibility: To be eligible for consideration, the trainee must be a U.S. Citizen or have obtained permanent residency status and have advanced to candidacy and completed all required course work in the Molecular Microbiology & Immunology or related GPILS program.

If you would like to apply to the Molecular Microbiology & Immunology program, please click here.

If you are interested in a postdoctoral trainee position, please contact Dr. Stefanie Vogel or any member of our training faculty.