Training and Education

The division is focused on educating the next generation of scientists and preparing them for 21st-century careers in the radiation sciences. Students are given the opportunity to participate in the grant writing process and perfect their presentation skills in small informal and large formal settings. Recognizing that today’s students are looking beyond the bench to future careers across the spectrum of academic, government, and industry science, the division seeks to ensure that students are prepared no matter where their careers lead them.

Students working towards masters and doctoral degrees, alike, are expected to acquire a solid foundation in molecular and radiation biology, a strong understanding of proper research conduct in compliance with the FDA’s Good Laboratory Practice regulations, and excellent writing and public speaking skills prior to graduation.

Training activities are offered within the division and to the wider scientific community. These include but are not limited to:

• Regular lectures and discussion groups;
• Rotations for visiting scholars, scientists, and medical students;
• Invited educational lectures/forums at national meetings;
• Graduate- and postgraduate-level instruction through University of Maryland Baltimore coursework and through one-on-one mentorship.
• Publication of results in the peer-reviewed literature.

Upon entering the division, all students, postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scientists are required to undergo a 4- to 6-week formal training program. All staff members are required to remain compliant with the following through training and maintenance of relevant certifications:

• CITI Training: Working with the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)- Species modules as appropriate
• Laboratory Animal Exposure Risk Assessment Program
• Confidentiality agreements
• Animal protocol assurance of compliance
• IACUC animal use protocols
• GLP training
• Standard operating procedures
• Study protocol(s)
• Environmental Health and Safety–required training (hazardous waste, bloodborne pathogens, etc.)
• Other project-specific training as needed.

For information on training and education opportunities in the Division of Translational Radiation Sciences, contact France Carrier, PhD, at fcarrier@som.umaryland.edu.