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Molecular Endocrinology Training Program (METP) at Vanderbilt
comprises twenty nine faculty members from five basic
science departments. Of this group 25 are established
faculty with stable, well-funded programs and training
experience and 4 are new investigators. The preceptor
group constitutes an unusually diverse and talented
group of individuals whose work covers the spectrum
of molecular endocrinology. These preceptors conduct
research in the general areas of: 1) signal transduction
2) the hormonal regulation of gene expression, 3) metabolic
regulation and 4) Stem cells, ß cell development
and function. The current level of 8 predoctoral and
4 postdoctoral trainees is a function of the number,
size and quality of the research programs directed by
the preceptors. All METP trainees are appointed upon
the advice of an Advisory Committee after being nominated
by a preceptor. Postdoctoral trainees have a Ph.D. degree.
Rigorous in-depth research training is the focus of
both the pre- and postdoctoral training programs. However,
the METP also ensures that all trainees receive a broad
didactic education. In addition, all METP trainees attend
the NIDDK-funded Vanderbilt Diabetes Research and Training
Center seminar series and meet with the visiting scientists.
New additions to the program include (i) a didactic
course focusing on the molecular endocrinology of obesity
and diabetes, (ii) an Annual METP Day to foster interaction
between trainees and preceptors, (iii) a post-doctoral
trainee mentoring program, and (iv) training in both
grant writing as well as laboratory & project management.
The Program also provides formal training in the proper
use of radioisotopes, in appropriate procedures of dealing
with toxic and dangerous materials, and in the responsible
conduct in research. METP trainees also have access
to a formal career-counseling program. The METP have
been successful in attracting and supporting the training
of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Medical Relevance: The field of Molecular Endocrinology
is of central relevance to multiple human diseases,
most notably obesity and diabetes. Continued progress
towards understanding and curing these and many other
diseases requires the training of the next generation
of scientists, which is the goal of this program.
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