Michigan Predoctoral Training in Molecular Biophysics - The mission of the Michigan Molecular Biophysics (MiMoB) training program is to bring together 44 preceptors across ten departments and four schools at the University of Michigan to train an outstanding cohort of graduate students in the physical-chemical and structural basis of life sciences, spanning from single molecules to macromolecular complexes to cellular systems. The program’s overall objectives are: (i) to provide enhanced training in the application of molecular biophysics in a rigorous and reproducible way to modern problems in human health and disease, (ii) to foster effective teamwork and build an inclusive community that maximizes student belonging and retention, and (iii) to provide career development opportunities tailored to the goals of individual trainees. To achieve these objectives, we will recruit a talented cohort of multidisciplinary trainees (6 in each year of the award, typically beginning in their 2nd year of study and supported for up to 2 years). Trainees will learn fundamental aspects of biophysical techniques and their applications, critical thinking, data analysis, statistics, and rigor through the required course Biophys520 (3 credits). A new two-semester Foundations in Biophysics course (1 credit) will provide additional training in molecular biophysics as well as career knowledge and opportunities, and professional competencies including interpersonal communications, project management, and resilience. The course will ensure that our trainees gain the ability to work collaboratively in team settings with colleagues of varied expertise and to communicate scientific outcomes orally and in writing. Trainees will gain additional skills in scientific communication, teamwork and leadership through planning and implementation of an annual biophysics symposium and extracurricular opportunities. Progress with independent research and career goals will be carefully monitored through the implementation of individual training plans and regular thesis advisory committee meetings, as well as active training and assessment of the mentors. The training program and its individual activities will be evaluated annually and refined to ensure that the program is meeting its objectives and the needs of the scientific community. Together, the activities of the MiMoB program are designed to contribute to fundamental scientific research and train responsible scientists who will become leaders in the biomedical workforce.
