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NIH grant 1T32AI184303-01A1: Transdisciplinary Training in RNA And INfection (TRAIN)
Institute: {'code': 'AI', 'abbreviation': 'NIAID', 'name': 'National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases', 'admin_org_id': '12500003', 'admin_funding_url': ''}. PI: NILS G WALTER. Award: $329539.
Start: 2026-07-24T00:00:00.
ABSTRACT:
The recent COVID-19 pandemic revealed critical gaps in preparedness for emerging viral pathogens and their
subversion of human RNA biology. At the same time, the success of mRNA vaccines has sparked a revolution
in medicine, driving rapid advancements in RNA therapeutics and transforming pharmaceutical and biotech
industries. The proposed University of Michigan (U-M) Transdisciplinary Training in RNA And INfection
(TRAIN) program builds on and refocuses U-M’s strengths in RNA Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases,
mentoring the next generation of leaders in RNA biology, infectious disease research, and drug development.
TRAIN integrates 32 preceptors from 14 departments across 5 schools/institutes into a cohesive,
collaborative environment with a unique training focus. The program offers transdisciplinary training
spanning RNA mechanisms to clinical studies, building on prior internal investments into Biosciences Initiatives
in RNA, Natural Products Drug Discovery, Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Single Cell Spatial Analysis, and
Infectious Disease Threats. Six graduate students, supported partly by internal resources, will benefit from
structured mentorship and hands-on opportunities designed to cultivate their scientific and leadership skills.
Key unique features include a mini-sabbatical program, where trainees gain expressly transdisciplinary
experience in collaborating labs, and an industry internship program in partnership with U-M’s Rackham
Graduate School and Innovation Partnerships, as well as at least 5 pharma companies, providing real-world
applications of their training. Trainee-led activities, including an annual symposium where they select and host
speakers, and biweekly seminars, foster leadership, communication, and networking skills.
Comprehensive resources, including U-M’s Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, specialized
coursework in RNA and infectious diseases, and training in responsible research conduct, ensure a holistic
training environment. Trainees will craft Individual Development Plans (IDPs), aligning their research goals
with career objectives and program milestones, in turn promoting tailored professional development. Regular
interactions with preceptors, the PI and co-Is, and cross-disciplinary mentoring will further refine the trainees’
ability to navigate the interface of RNA biology and infectious disease.
The program will be governed by the PI, co-Is, an Executive Committee, and internal and external advisory
boards, ensuring robust oversight and feedback, including independently administered surveys. Regular
biannual reviews of trainee progress provide constructive guidance, while an interactive, interdisciplinary
environment encourages collaboration across diverse scientific areas. Additionally, semi-social events, including
an informal journal club, foster community-building and cross-disciplinary dialogue. By equipping young
investigators to address challenges at the RNA-infection interface, TRAIN nurtures leadership in academia,
industry, and public health, addressing the growing global need for expertise in this critical transdisciplinary area.document fetched 2026-08-02 08:24