Project Summary The Genetic Dissection of Cells and Organisms Training Program (GDTP) provides predoctoral trainees from diverse backgrounds with advanced training in classical genetics, quantitative analysis, precision genome engineering, and broader societal challenges that will be ameliorated through genetics. GDTP is the only program at UC Berkeley that provides integrated training across the full range of genetics, from phage to human. GDTP’s 51 training faculty are recognized leaders in basic and biomedical spheres, drawn from the departments of Molecular & Cell Biology (MCB), Plant & Microbial Biology (PMB), and Integrative Biology (IB), and from the interdisciplinary Graduate Group in Microbiology (GGM). This renewal proposal requests support for 16 trainees in their second and third years of PhD training after they commit to genetics as the focus of their graduate research. The GDTP provides long-standing, student-centered training within a flexible but data-driven pedagogical structure that requires a two-year training program to fulfill its goals. All trainees are required to take graduate-level courses in empirical genetics; data analysis and statistics; responsible conduct and reproducibility in research, and laboratory/field safety. The GDTP’s Weekly Genetics Immersion is also required across both years. It includes direct interaction with leading geneticists from both the UC Berkeley campus, our collaborative initiatives with other Bay Area institutes, and outside institutions from around the world; critical evaluation of peer-reviewed papers in genetics; and interweaving of salient topics in ethics and responsible conduct in research. Annual events include a trainee orientation and an Annual Retreat to prepare students for presenting their research results at scientific meetings. The GDTP provides career counseling and a suite of professional development programs in science communication, teaching, grant-writing, and publishing, teamwork, management, and leadership. All trainees will receive extensive individual advising and mentoring tailored to their career objectives using best practices in the context of diversity, equity, inclusion, justice, and belonging. Close tracking of student progress ensures that trainees who are struggling receive appropriate and timely support. GDTP’s evaluation process solicits internal and external input throughout the year, ensuring continuous program improvement. An ambitious recruitment and retention plan—involving the active participation of all training faculty—is employed to ensure full participation and inclusion of trainees from underrepresented minority, disabled, and disadvantaged backgrounds.