PROJECT SUMMARY The overall goal of the Research Track of the Rheumatology Training Program at UCSF is to provide advanced research training to qualified physician-scientists who plan to pursue research careers focusing on the rheumatologic diseases. This program provides training in basic and clinical sciences important to the study of these diseases, drawing on the skills of nationally renowned faculty who have a track record of mentorship. The main program is a direct research experience under the close supervision of a primary faculty member as well as a mentoring committee. Trainees will learn state-of-the-art methods and techniques; investigate a problem in depth; determine what constitutes quality science; learn the latest scientific advances in their field of study; understand the ethical conduct of research; and receive training on how to disseminate their work. The program emphasizes approaches from disease pathogenesis to translating research discoveries into improved recognition, health care delivery and treatment for those with rheumatic diseases. Drawing on the significant strengths and resources of the Rheumatology Divisions at Moffitt-Long University Hospital (Parnassus Heights campus), Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital, and the San Francisco VA Medical Center, and integrating the UCSF Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, the program supports physician- scientists training in both adult and pediatric rheumatology. The program also draws upon the strength of the Immunology Thematic Area within the Biomedical Sciences Program to provide trainees with access to leading immunology researchers and a broad range of basic and translational research and training opportunities in a highly collaborative environment. The program has added new faculty in recent years, including several involved in clinical and translational research, further emphasizing our focus on disease-related research and increasing the transdisciplinary opportunities for trainees in areas of new research development. For over four decades, the rheumatology training program has combined strength in basic biomedical research with clinical and translational research and created an outstanding environment for collaboration among faculty and trainees. This training grant will support five highly qualified physician-scientist trainees through two years of rigorous scientific training, with the objective that they will successfully devote their subsequent careers to the study of the rheumatologic diseases.