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The Science to Advance Translation T32 Predoctoral Training Program

The Science to Advance Translation (STAT) T32 Predoctoral Training Program

The STAT T32 program trains future scientists to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and their application in patient care, emphasizing translational science principles and promoting diversity in the scientific workforce.
Submit a Letter of Intent by March 28

Overview

The Science to Advance Translation (STAT) T32 Program, hosted by the Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), invites applications for its two-year funded predoctoral training program. The STAT T32 program aims to train the next generation of scientists to overcome barriers that prevent scientific discoveries from reaching patients and communities, focusing on the principles of translational science and fostering diversity in the scientific workforce.

Purpose

This RFA seeks highly motivated predoctoral students interested in the science of translation—advancing scientific discoveries to real-world healthcare solutions. The STAT T32 Program offers comprehensive training, including personalized mentorship, interdisciplinary team science, data science, scientific communication, community engagement, and responsible conduct of research. Successful applicants will gain skills to address translational barriers in healthcare, focusing on equity and community impact.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the STAT T32 Program, applicants must:

  1. Be enrolled in a predoctoral program (PhD, MD-PhD, or equivalent) at MCW, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, or Marquette University.
  2. Be a United States citizens or permanent residents of the United States.
  3. Have completed coursework and research milestones sufficient to begin focused translational science training.
  4. Commit to full-time participation in the STAT T32 Program.
  5. Not have more than 5 years of aggregate NRSA support at the pre-doctoral level, including any combination of support from institutional training and individual fellowship awards.

Applications from individuals who contribute to diversity in translational science, including underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and/or individuals with disabilities, are highly encouraged.

Important Dates

  • LOI Submission Deadline: March 28, 2025
  • Full Application Invitation: April 7, 2025
  • Full Application Deadline: May 5, 2025
  • Interview Dates: May 2025
  • Funding Decision Notification: June 2, 2025

Key Training Components / Goals

  • Personalized Curriculum and Mentorship: Trainees will develop an Individualized Development Plan (IDP) with their mentor(s) to outline career goals, research objectives, and core translational science competencies.
  • Science of Translation Focus: Training will emphasize overcoming translational barriers, interdisciplinary research, and community-based healthcare improvements.
  • Core Competencies: Including data science, scientific communication, responsible conduct of research, team science, and community engagement.
  • Professional Development: Comprehensive workshops, team-based projects, and mentorship meetings to prepare trainees for leadership roles in translational science.

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Funding Details
  • Support Duration: 2 years, subject to satisfactory progress
  • Financial Support: Includes a stipend, trainee related expenses (fringe benefits), tuition support, and travel funds (https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/notice-files/NOT-OD-24-104.html)
  • Funding is contingent upon the successful funding of two grant applications, the UM1 and T32, which are under review with results expected in March 2025. Direct questions to Program Manager Kristin Nord at knord@mcw.edu. 
Application Requirements

All applications must include:

1. Letter of Intent (LOI): Due March 28, 2025

  • Briefly describe the applicant’s background, research interests, and goals in translational science.
  • Indicate how participation in the STAT T32 Program aligns with career objectives and the program’s mission.

2. Full Application: Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application. Required components include:

  • Personal Statement: Address background, career goals, motivation for translational science, and anticipated contributions to the STAT T32 Program.
  • Research Proposal: Outline a research project or area of interest that addresses translational barriers, with clear objectives and methodology.
  • Mentor Letter of Support: A detailed letter from the primary mentor(s) indicating their commitment to the applicant’s career development.
  • Diversity Statement (Optional): Applicants from diverse backgrounds may include a statement describing any unique perspectives or experiences that contribute to the program’s mission for inclusivity.
  • Underrepresented Racial/Ethnic Background
  • Economically Disadvantaged Background
  • Disabilities
  • Other Aspects of Diversity

3. Interview: Applicants may be invited for an interview with the Admissions Committee to discuss their application and research interests further.

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated on the following criteria:

  • Research Potential and Proposal Quality: Relevance to translational science and the applicant’s preparedness to address translational challenges.
  • Alignment with STAT T32 Goals: Commitment to interdisciplinary research, the science of translation, and program objectives.
  • Mentor Support: Strength and commitment of the mentor(s) to the applicant’s professional development.
  • Contribution to Program Diversity: Consideration will be given to applicants from underrepresented groups in science and medicine.
Submission Process

Please submit all required documents by the deadlines listed above. Late applications will not be considered. 

  • Please read these instructions carefully before going online to apply. The Letter of Interest must be completed and submitted online at https://redcap.mcw.edu/surveys/?s=KLYHD88KDK3FLCMT.
  • The application process is designed so that you can save your information and return to it (you will be given a code, so be prepared to save that information).
  • Materials must be submitted online in PDF format.
  • Please use Arial with font no smaller than size 11. Use single-space text. Margins should be at least ½ inch on all sides.
  • The letters of support should be addressed to Dr. Danny Thomas, incorporated into a PDF file and uploaded in the application.
  • Please make sure you have completed all sections of the entire application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. 

Start Your Application