Grant: Training Grant

Chemical Biology is a new research field that seeks to identify and to exploit novel small molecules as tools to determine precisely the ways in which specific biochemical and genetic processes contribute to the normal, and in some cases the pathological, behavior of cells and organs in humans and other organisms. We propose to develop our existing program in Chemical Biology to offer trainees not only rigorous training in the discipline of chemical biology itself, but also a meaningful exposure to the challenges and potential of translating basic research findings into clinically useful diagnostic, preventative and therapeutic approaches to two major types of human disease: respiratory disease, focusing on asthma and cystic fibrosis, and infectious diseases. Graduates of our training program will be equipped not only with outstanding training in the methods and strategies of chemical biology, but also with a heightened awareness of the nature of translational research and of the opportunities (and needs) for them to contribute their skills in this vital research area.