Project Summary
This is a new program for “Training in Translating Neuroscience to Therapies” at Rutgers University. Its overall
objective is to provide scientists in training performing laboratory-based experiments the skills and competencies
needed to advance their discoveries to treatments for neurological disorders. The aims of the program are to: 1)
provide a continuum of comprehensive training that advances translational neuroscience research towards
therapeutic developments; 2) expand the pipeline of translational neuroscience researchers within a diverse
cohort of trainees; and 3) leverage Rutgers’ strengths in neuroscience drug discovery and development to
provide broad experiences to trainees in this program. The rationale for establishing this program is the
increasing burden of neurological diseases globally, many of which have no good treatments much less cures,
and the accelerated advances in scientific discoveries in the genetics and molecular pathogenesis of nervous
system disorders. Thus, this is an opportune time to harness knowledge gained in our understanding of disease
processes, fill in the gaps in this knowledge base, and translate basic discoveries to deliverables for patients
suffering from these disorders. The design of the training program combines traditional coursework, seminars,
conferences, a biostatistics curriculum, and an annual retreat, along with experiential learning through a series
of apprenticeships with experts in fields that link scientific innovation with industry to advance laboratory
discoveries to clinical trials. Trainees will learn from neurologists and trialists, and actively engage in clinical
trials. The training period for each participant is two years. A total of two positions are requested in year one,
and four positions in subsequent years. The trainees will include senior graduate students, MD/PhD students
and postdoctoral fellows at a ratio of 1:1:2. Trainees will work in the laboratories of highly qualified neuroscientists
and translational investigators employing multidisciplinary approaches to learn the principles of rigorous and
reproducible research. They will also have mentors with expertise in medicinal chemistry, drug discovery and
development, clinical research and trials, start-ups, and career opportunities. Faculty and trainees will benefit
from a formal mentoring program in place at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences. Program oversight
includes internal and external advisory boards, and an Executive Committee consisting of senior leadership at
Rutgers University with extensive experience in translational and clinical research, pharmaceutical development,
commercialization of innovations, and graduate and postgraduate education. The quality and effectiveness of
the training program will be assessed by an independent assessor. The intended outcome of this program is to
train the next generation of leaders in translational neuroscience who have the knowhow and passion to take
basic discoveries to clinical trials and treatments that benefit millions with neurological diseases.