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This project focuses on the Targeted Expertise Shortage Area of Sciences (TESA) for Agricultural Biosecurity, specifically in the area of animal pathology. It will address discipline code X (Agricultural Biosecurity). The goal of the proposal is to train two national needs fellows at the doctoral level specifically in the area of animal pathology with a strong emphasis in biosecurity. This will be accomplished through a three year integrated training experience involving investigative pathology, diagnostics and biosecurity/biosafety that takes full advantage of the extensive resources in these three areas available at Colorado State University.<P>
Four innovative aspects of our animal pathology biosecurity training program include: <OL> <LI> A close knit connection between this training program and the ~35million dollar NIH funded Rocky Mountain Center for Biodefense which provides a rare and outstanding opportunity for students to receive training in both animal pathology and biosecurity. <LI> Industry connections between our training program and regional and national agricultural and biotechnology industries is available through the CSU Infectious Disease Supercluster (also called MicroRX). <LI> Efforts are currently underway to create a parallel certificate program in biosafety/biosecurity to help address the national need in this area.<LI>The plethora of research opportunities in our department supported by ~$33 million in extramural funding will provide a goldmine of exposure of trainees to many areas of pathology and pathogenesis. </ol> A detailed set of eleven independent assessment rubrics are in place and will be applied annually to ensure trainee progress. Finally, a strong defined administrative structure will promote the smooth operation and effective delivery of the Program. This program will have national impact in that it will develop 2 well-trained PhD-level animal pathologists with in-depth biosecurity awareness to help address the TESA.
NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: This program is designed to create 2 well-trained PhD-level animal pathologists with in-depth biosecurity awareness to help address the growing national need in this area. We will use a variety of coursework and experiential learning activities to accomplish this goal.
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APPROACH: The goals of this program will be accomplished through a three year integrated training experience involving investigative pathology, diagnostics and biosecurity/biosafety that takes full advantage of the extensive resources in these three areas available at Colorado State University. The new training program will involve more than 20 core faculty members who have an excellent record of mentorship and collaboration. In addition to extensive research opportunities, 25 graduate level pathology, infectious disease and biosafety courses, along with a comprehensive course in the responsible conduct of research, are available for trainees to provide a strong theoretical foundation for the Program. Frequent seminars, journal clubs, grantsmanship/laboratory management workshops and an annual retreat will ensure a high level of communication in the Program as well as a well-rounded training experience. A detailed set of 11 assessment rubrics are in place and will be applied annually to ensure trainee progress. These rubrics include the ability to digest and apply course material, oral and written communication skills, ability to interpret data and pose hypotheses, knowledge of 21st century lab skills, ability to work independently, the responsible conduct of research and post-graduation follow-ups to monitor to overall impact of the program.