PROJECT SUMMARY This is a new application seeking T32 grant support for a postdoctoral research training program in basic research, translational research, clinical research, clinical trials and health service research relevant to improving lung health within the southeastern United States. The ultimate goal of the Pulmonary Focused Foundations in Innovation and Scholarship (Puffins) Training Program is to recruit, train and ensure that the next generation of investigators have the skillsets needed to improve the healthcare and outcomes for individuals with lung diseases with particular emphasis on lung cancer prevention, screening and implementation, critical care, and rare lung diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis and cystic fibrosis. Our interactive and interdisciplinary Puffins Training Program brings together a spectrum of well-funded investigators across the Medical University of South Carolina, including clinician researchers, epidemiologists, and cell biologists. The training program is structured to help Fellows obtain the necessary competencies and expertise for sustained careers in pulmonary medicine in a flexible framework that accommodates a diverse range of prior education/experience. Puffins Fellows may matriculate into one of two research tracks with a foundation in innovation and entrepreneurship: Clinical Science Research Track focused on clinical trials and health service research and Basic Science Research Track. Training will be outlined in each Fellow’s Individualized Development Plan and guided by their selection of a Primary Mentor in a pulmonary-related research area and Secondary Mentor to provide a complimentary interdisciplinary scientific approach or clinical area of expertise. Puffins Fellows will also benefit from core and selective training options that include formal course work, workshops, training in the responsible conduct of research, and retreats. The application requests support for 2 Puffins Fellows in year 1, and 4 Fellows in years 2-5. Puffins Fellows will be on the research training grant for two years. The Program Steering Committee will review and approve the selection and annual re-appointment of Puffins Fellows based on specified criteria and evaluation data. A multi-year assessment plan will be used to: 1) assess each Fellow’s performance and experience in the program and subsequent development and productivity;; 2) assess the effectiveness of the mentors and mentee-mentor relationships;; 3) enable program leadership to determine if the objectives of the program are being achieved;; and 4) inform strategic direction for future program development.