Vascular Training Grant

This is the fifth competing renewal application for Yale University’s Vascular Research Postdoctoral T32. Of fellows who have completed training to date, 87% have obtained academic faculty positions and/or careers in science, and many have received independent grant support, strong indicators of program success. The continued goal is to provide laboratory and translational research training for highly qualified physician (M.D. and M.D./Ph.D.) and Ph.D. postdoctoral fellows in vascular biology, in preparation for careers as independent investigators in blood vessel biology- and medicine-related disciplines. Trainee selection will be based on a commitment to vascular biology and strong prior research experience or potential of same.

Applications will be encouraged from clinical and basic science departments, with a nationwide competition for 6 yearly slots. The training will be mentor-based, also including advisory committees and didactic courses. The minimum duration of training will be 2 years. The Cardiovascular Medicine Division and Yale’s Interdisciplinary Program in Vascular Biology and Therapeutics will be the foundations for the program.

A key asset is Yale’s interdisciplinary strength in vascular biology. Departmental affiliations for participating faculty include Cardiovascular Medicine, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Immunobiology, Pharmacology, Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, Pathology, Genetics, Bioengineering, Physiology, Epidemiology and Public Health, and Computer Science. This is a testimony to the wide spectrum of strong vascular biology laboratories at Yale and the program's institutional nature. Faculty were chosen based on impressive histories of mentorship, ongoing vascular research productivity, strong extramural support and commitment to serve as mentors within the program.

New participating faculty have been added to broaden the scientific diversity, expanding research training opportunities, and to bring several younger, exceptional faculty into the program. Examples of research opportunities include: (1) molecular imaging of angiogenesis and vascular remodeling; (2) mapping and identification of genes that contribute to the development of vascular disease in humans; (3) engineering of vascular biomaterials; (4) generation of angiogenic gene regulators for use in clinical trials; and (5) spatial transcriptomics/genomics of human ischemic cardiovascular tissue. This represents a wide range of disease-related vascular research, with key translational components. Trainee progress will be monitored by mentors, the trainee’s advisory committee and the Program Co-Directors.

We expect to train future national and international leaders in vascular research. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., and a major cause of mortality world-wide. This program will provide important opportunities for individuals from multiple disciplines to eventually lead high impact efforts at reducing the incidence of, and improving outcomes in, cardiovascular disease.

Grant Number: 5T32HL007950-25
NIH Institute/Center: NIH
Principal Investigator: JEFFREY BENDER