# Training in the Next Generation in Respiratory Science

> **NIH NIH T32** · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · 2020 · $445,098

## Abstract

7. PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
This proposal is for a new training program entitled “Training the Next Generation in Respiratory Science” that
capitalizes on our major local strengths. Historically UCSD had two T32 grants, one in Physiology (primarily gas
exchange and exercise) and one in Pulmonology (primarily pulmonary hypertension). Over time, the field of
physiology has evolved to solve new problems and in our view is not ‘dead’. We remain focused on the
importance of integrated function and systems biology and thus we use the concepts of physiology as an
integrator across respiratory science studied at multiple levels. While we view our science as cutting edge, we
pride ourselves on the fact that our trainees do not just focus on a single molecule or gene or receptor but rather
keep in mind the importance of integrated function. We propose to continue our collaborative arrangements with
Drs. Frank Powell and Atul Malhotra, current Chiefs of the Divisions of Physiology and PCCMS, respectively, as
Multiple PIs. Training in respiratory science at UCSD has evolved considerably since Dr. Malhotra’s arrival as he
brought in new strengths in sleep science as well as in critical care. Thus, we have expanded the research
opportunities to prepare trainees for participating effectively in team science and continually renewing their
approach to novel research questions that will arise during their careers. However, to improve the quality of
mentoring, we also removed less effective mentors while adding more RO1-funded preceptors and formalizing
the levels of faculty participation based on success in research training and current research funding. For
example, UCSD now has considerable strength in Pediatric Lung Disease (e.g. Victor Nizet, Gabby Haddad, Rob
Knight, Jim Hagood). Thus we made Pediatrics a major focus of our efforts which also addresses the national
shortage in this area. We utilize individual development plans, overseen by the MPIs, Preceptors and senior
advisors, for all of our trainees to accommodate people with diverse backgrounds and different research
interests. We promote collaboration between MDs and PhDs, insure that everyone has experience and
competency in multidisciplinary research, and insure all of our trainees have a strong foundation in physiological
approaches that provides a clinical context for research problems studied at any level. We promote
cohesiveness, team spirit and a unique identity for our trainees via common activities involving all of our trainees
and mentors such as weekly scholarly activity meetings (SAMs), our Lung Investigator Group, and quarterly
retreats. We are committed to a training program that includes every phase of academic career development,
from ‘cradle to grave’ including developing junior faculty into independent investigators, and even improving the
mentoring skills in our most senior faculty. We also remain committed to diversifying the next generation of
respiratory scientists as demonstrated...

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9858412
- **Project number:** 5T32HL134632-04
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- **Principal Investigator:** Atul Malhotra
- **Activity code:** T32 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $445,098
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2017-02-01 → 2022-01-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9858412

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9858412, Training in the Next Generation in Respiratory Science (5T32HL134632-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9858412. Licensed CC0.

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