Join us at the 2024 Biomedical Training Program Directors’ Conference for a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate within the dynamic landscape of biomedical research training. We look forward to welcoming you and fostering a community dedicated to advancing diversity and excellence in the field.

Conference Overview

The 2024 Biomedical Training Program Directors’ Conference aims to inspire participants, foster creative research training approaches, and encourage collaborative initiatives. The conference sessions will be structured as technical workshops, focusing on skill development, including topics like active listening and promoting wellness. Additionally, NIGMS TWD program-specific breakout sessions will enable attendees to exchange best practices with each other and help aspirational program directors. The conference offers ample free time for informal discussions, networking, and sharing program insights. Furthermore, participants will have the unique opportunity to engage in relaxed, face-to-face discussions with NIGMS program officers, gaining valuable insights into program administration.

Target Audience

The meeting is tailored for program directors within NIGMS Training, Workforce Development, and Diversity institutional training programs and associate deans (or the equivalent) at their respective institutions. This gathering unites thought leaders overseeing programs such as Bridges to the Baccalaureate, Bridges to the Doctorate, G-RISE, IMSD, IRACDA, MARC, MSTP, PREP, U-RISE, and T32 pre- and postdoctoral programs. The conference returns due to its overwhelming success, providing a unique opportunity for these dedicated individuals to meet in person, exchange innovative ideas, share best practices and learn from experts, and engage with NIGMS program officers.

Program Topics/Speakers

During the conference, we will explore high-quality, interactive presentations on evidence-based research training practices and interventions across four major themes:

• Trainee and Faculty Wellness: Learn practical tips to enhance the well-being of both trainees and faculty members.
  • Neda F. Gould, PhD, Associate Professor, Director of the Mindfulness Program, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
  • Wendy Ingram, PhD, Founder and CEO, Dragonfly Mental Health
• Advancing Research Mentoring: Develop strategies and skills to elevate the quality of research mentoring.
  • Janet Branchaw, PhD, Associate Professor of Kinesiology, Director, Wisconsin Institutes for Science Education and Community Engagement
  • Philip Clifford, PhD, Professor, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois Chicago
• Inclusive Excellence in Recruiting, Admissions, and Retention: Discover ways to promote inclusive excellence throughout the recruitment, admissions, and retention processes.
  • Marlene De La Cruz, PhD, Director, Student Academic Development, Outreach, Research, Training and Minority Science Programs, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine
  • Joyce Lloyd, PhD, Professor Emerita in the Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Medicine
  • Rajini Rao, PhD, Professor, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University   
• Promoting Positive Research Laboratory Culture: Gain insights into creating a positive research laboratory culture that fosters productivity and collaboration.
  • Jennifer M. Heemstra, PhD, Charles Allen Thomas Professor and Chair, Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis
  • Reinhart Reithmeier, PhD, FCAHS, Professor Emeritus, Department of Biochemistry, University of Toronto