# Molecular Biophysics Training Grant

> **NIH NIH T32** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · 2021 · $483,372

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY / ABSTRACT
The UCSF Graduate Group in Biophysics is seeking continuation of its established training program in
molecular biophysics. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary training at the interface between biology,
physics, chemistry and mathematics to address fundamental questions in molecular function and cellular
processes. We recruit a diverse group of students with quantitative backgrounds and train them to design and
conduct rigorous experimental and computational research. We seek funding at a sustained level of 12
appointed predoctoral trainees, each supported for a maximum of two years. The program's objectives are to
(i) provide our students with both a foundation in quantitative, physical approaches and a sophisticated
understanding of biology; (ii) bridge computational and experimental biophysical methods; and (iii) prepare the
next generation of leaders in their field and career. Hallmarks of our program include:
(i) Collaborative and interdisciplinary research. The Biophysics program currently comprises faculty from 9
 departments and 3 Schools. Faculty membership grew from 46 to 59 in the last funding period, adding
 several new faculty with expertise in mathematics, computer science, chemistry, and physics. The
 Biophysics program is a primary catalyst for bridging between the physical and biological sciences,
 responding to a growing need for quantitative approaches to biology and medicine. Faculty and students
 publish many collaborative papers. Retreats and journal clubs foster further collaborative interactions.
(ii) An innovative and evolving curriculum. Our core values of collaboration and interdisciplinary research are
 instilled from day one in “Bootcamp”, and continue in well-tested and new intensive project-based core
 courses designed to establish a common knowledge and language, and to foster team skills. A modular
 panel of “selectives” addresses important knowledge gaps, inherent in the diverse scientific backgrounds of
 our students. Current and new `mini courses' facilitate deep exploration of research topics in small groups
 with faculty experts, and allow the curriculum to adjust to current scientific developments. Changes are
 made regularly in response to student and alumni feedback and program assessment.
(iii) Intensive training in communication, and preparation for diverse careers. We emphasize training in key
 competencies needed in diverse careers in academia, industry, or the public sector, including oral and
 written presentation, communication, and teamwork skills. Students can participate in career preparation
 workshops and internships, and many take on leadership roles in outreach and teaching. Our alumni
 include leaders in both academia and industry, including several who have started successful companies.
(iv) Continued commitment to diversity. Our diverse current students and alumni are successful in their
 research and careers. We will augment our current structured approach t...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10183262
- **Project number:** 5T32GM008284-34
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- **Principal Investigator:** Tanja Kortemme
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $483,372
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 1988-09-30 → 2023-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10183262

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10183262, Molecular Biophysics Training Grant (5T32GM008284-34). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10183262. Licensed CC0.

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