Multidisciplinary Research Training in Gerontology
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Abstract The USC Multidisciplinary Research Training Program in Gerontology provides predoctoral and postdoctoral training using a multidisciplinary approach that considers aging from all levels, including cellular, brain systems, psychology, society, economics, and policy. Trainees become expert in one aspect of aging while also learning about the theory and methodological approaches of related disciplines so they can incorporate multidisciplinary thinking and models in their own research. Predoctoral training can be in Biology, Gerontology, Psychology, Neuroscience, Policy, and Medicine. Postdoctoral students can be appointed in these fields as well as Economics, Neurology, and several multidisciplinary research institutes. The overarching goal of the program is to develop future leaders in the field who use multidisciplinary approaches to investigate factors determining physical and cognitive health in aging. We have three main foci: 1) How the exposome influences aging; 2) Using geroscience approaches to understand population aging; and 3) Understanding factors that affect the brain and cognition during aging. USC is at the cutting edge of research in each of these areas. The training program is housed in the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology which is devoted to the study of aging. Training is directed by a multidisciplinary faculty across the University who are linked in many ways because of their focus on aging research. The environment is rich with resources and research opportunities. Training is accomplished through completion of (1) disciplinary degree requirements for the Ph.D.; (2) participation in multidisciplinary courses on health and aging and research on Alzheimer’s disease; (3) training in appropriate methods and analytic techniques; (4) research experience within and across disciplines; (5) close mentoring relationships between trainees and one or more preceptors; (6) participation of trainees in training experiences such as courses, workshops, and professional meetings; and (7) support of trainees to develop individual research profiles, publish papers, and make presentations at professional meetings. The program goal is to develop scholars with independent research careers who become leading scholars in the science of aging. The program draws from a large pool of talented students. Almost all students who enter the program complete it successfully and the program has produced a number of leaders and emerging leaders in aging related research, a number of whom are diverse scholars. Support is requested for 5 predoctoral trainees, who will generally be supported for 3 years, and 5 postdoctoral trainees, who will generally be supported for 2 years.
