Program Design

The purpose of the MTOR program is to provide exceptional postdoctoral scientists, trained in basic science, with an intensive translational-focused training program, and to bestow them with the knowledge and tools, that will enable them to make and drive key advances in cancer research and expand treatment options for patients.

Year One

Trainees will:

• Develop a translational project in a preceptor’s laboratory
• Participate in two mandatory core didactic courses:

MTOR-specific course:
15 lectures, especially designed for MTOR, will be presented by our preceptors jointly with their clinical collaborators to showcase the principles of translational cancer research and team science.

Tri-Institutional Responsible Conduct of Research:
Aims to heighten the awareness of trainees to ethical considerations relevant to the conduct of research and inform about applicable federal, state, and institutional polices.

• Attend and present at the MTOR annual retreat and as a major scientific meeting of their choice

Year Two

Upon competitive renewal, trainees will:

• Participate in one mandatory core didactic course:

Transitioning to Research Independence:
A seminar series geared towards postdoctoral researchers and fellows who plan to set up their own laboratory and develop their own research program at an academic institution. Trainees will comprehend the faculty application process; understand strategies for funding, mentoring and leadership to effectively run their own research group.

• Have the opportunity to enroll in a research workshop of their choice (e.g. AACR Translational Cancer Research for Basic Scientists, Single Cell Analysis, and Statistical Methods for Functional Genomics by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory).