Saturday, September 7, 2024
9/7/2024
Project Summary/Abstract This is a competitive renewal of an alcohol research training program (T32) currently in its 19th year that aims to continue an exceptional track record of training pre and postdoctoral trainees interested in alcohol research across the lifespan. It supports four predoctoral and four postdoctoral trainees per year, each appointed for two years. This joint endeavor of San Diego State University (SDSU) and the University of California San Diego (UCSD) is led by Dr. Edward Riley (Program Director, SDSU) and Dr. Andrea Spadoni (Program Director, UCSD). The faculty consists of researchers affiliated with the SDSU/UCSD Joint Doctoral Program (JDP) in Clinical Psychology. The JDP provides a unique opportunity for the training of doctoral students in the Science/Practitioner model and is consistently ranked as one of the top clinical psychology doctoral programs in the U.S. The model is guided by the conviction that a solid foundation in the science of psychology is essential for the modern clinical psychologist. Further, a rigorous scientific core, including the commitment to empirically- based knowledge and the development of research skills, is regarded as fundamental in educating clinical psychologists. Finally, this model is consistent with the NIH goal of translating research to the clinic. The environment for this training is rich with resources, skilled mentors, ample research funding, and an extremely collegial atmosphere that encourages collaborative studies between labs and universities. The T32 prepares trainees for successful careers in research and academic environments with intensive mentored and specialized training experiences in research addressing the determinants and consequences of alcoholism. Hands-on, mentored alcohol research experience, in conjunction with workshops and seminars in addictions, research methodologies, responsible conduct of research, data science, enhancing reproducibility, manuscript/grant writing, and career development are the key activities of this training program. Research experiences encompass a broad range of alcohol-related areas such as neural risk factors and consequences of alcohol exposure, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, adolescent substance use, and comorbidities. While pre- and postdoctoral trainees alike receive extensive training in the behavioral sciences and in alcohol and other substance use and related disorders, postdoctoral training is highly tailored toward the achievement of individual career goals. Since its inception in 2002, this training program has undergone constant refinement and it will continue to do so to meet the needs of the trainees and the evolving addictions research field. Its graduates continue their success in primarily academic/research settings. Their achievements and feedback about their experience indicate that they acquire the skills and scientific discipline necessary to be successful researchers and that they have the clinical skills to apply their knowledge and ask relevant questions regarding alcohol and other substance use disorders.
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