Grant: Training Grant in Genetic Epidemiology - Letter of Intent

The STAGE (Strategic Training for Advanced Genetic Epidemiology) program of the University of Toronto Dalla Lana School of Public Health, in partnership with affiliated research institutes, proposes to offer graduate and post-doctoral training at the interface between the statistical and biomedical sciences, with a focus on genetics and genomics in the context of human population health. As such, this proposal for a training program is strongly supported by the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, which will host the STAGE program. The fundamental premise of STAGE is that in order for genetics to have an impact on population health, research trainees require substantial experience in leading-edge research at the interface of statistics, epidemiology, and biomedical sciences, which builds on fundamental training in their core disciplines. The program includes core and elective coursework for pre-doctoral trainees and available to post-doctoral trainees. To develop the range of knowledge and skills essential to become highly qualified personnel (HQP), independent scientists or scientific leaders, including communication, research ethics, and research translation, specific interdisciplinary activities will be developed. In addition, a national networking component will be integrated as part of our long-term HQP development plan. Upon completion of training, a new generation of investigators will take up positions in academia, government, and industry. Based on the current demand for such expertise, graduates of the program will find a wide range of opportunities to contribute to the current economy by exercising leadership in scientific investigations aimed at understanding and addressing the etiology and outcomes of common chronic and infectious diseases.