MSTR Curriculum
The MSTR is a 2-year program designed to provide in-depth training in the fundamental skills, methodology, and principles of translational research.
| Thesis | Coursework | Lab Methods Rotations |
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At the time of application, each student specifies the research project they will pursue, along with the primary mentor who will supervise the research project. The thesis involves designing a research project, writing a formal research proposal, performing the study described in it, preparing 1-2 comprehensive scholarly scientific paper(s) reporting the results, and presenting and defending the thesis at a public seminar. |
Core courses are structured into 4 pillar areas:
Elective courses are guided by research interests. |
Methods rotations teach trainees:
Examples include: a traditional wet bench experience, such as learning how to develop an assay; a clinical rotation learning how to perform/analyze a technique in a specialty area; a rotation in a bioinformatics or imaging laboratory. |
Sample Study Plan
There is flexibility in the study plan. Students may propose alternative courses for approval based on learning needs and prior experience.
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← Research Project → ← Professional Development Sessions → |
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Elective Coursework
Electives are chosen based on your specific domain interest and relevance to your research project and career path. The content areas are (1) discovery science (2) translational therapeutics & regulatory science, (3) data science/biomedical informatics, (4) implementation science, and (5) learning health system science.
Professional Development
The ASCEnD (Advancing Scientific Careers and Enhancing Professional Development) Program aims to develop survival skills for translational researchers, while promoting a culture which recognizes the importance of self-efficacy and personal accountability. The two-year program includes a series of monthly 90-minute interactive working-lunch style sessions, speed mentoring events, career panels and networking opportunities. Session structure varies between small group activities, role-playing, panel discussions, and case studies. Session leaders are from various career stages, both internal and external, and bring unique perspectives to the program.
Mentorship
A mentoring team is established for each trainee, including a research mentor(s) selected by the trainee at application, and a program mentor assigned by the program. This team works together to enhance the trainee’s scientific knowledge, support their professional skill development, nurture their ability to lead research teams, and broaden their research network. They will act as sponsors and advocates for the trainee’s career advancement. The primary research mentor(s) provides direction for the research project and the scientific training. A secondary research mentor may offer clinical expertise for a basic science project to ensure translational relevance or contribute multidisciplinary expertise distinct from that of the primary mentor. The program mentor guides the trainee through completion of the program elements, helps them manage their training plan, provides guidance on grant submissions, helps navigate challenging relationships, serves as an advocate and sponsor, and offers career counseling. Together, the mentorship team guides the trainee to form a Thesis Committee comprised of three faculty members with relevant scientific expertise.
Industry Internship
In collaboration with our corporate partners, interested students have the optional opportunity to learn about translational medicine via an Industry Internship. The internship will include approximately 10 hours per week for one semester. Internships may span across various facets of the pharmaceutical industry, including discovery, development, regulatory affairs and/or commercialization. Students gain hands on experience "translating technology" and receive academic credit for the internship. This program fosters greater interactions between industry and academia by exposing MSTR students to the roles they can play in the pharmaceutical industry as a potential career path. Students will be expected to work on site at the corporate partners location for 1 day per week, with additional time dedicated to background research and preparation.
This is a 12-credit program awarded as follows:
- Completion of required courses awards 5 credits (proposal development, biostatistics, disease measurement, ethics and scientific writing)
- Completion of two ‘lab’ rotations awards 2 credits
- Completion of thesis defense awards 2 credits
- Completion of 3 electives will award the final 3 credits