The "Research Training Program in Gerontology and Exercise Physiology" at University of 'Maryland is mentor based in an academic environment with an interdisciplinary faculty and strong curricula to teach trainees the skills to become independent investigators in exercise physiology and metabolism research in aging. The training faculty are experienced, well-funded investigators studying the effects of physical activity and body composition on metabolism, exercise physiology and cardiovascular function in the elderly. The aims are to mentor our trainees with an in-depth laboratory research and classroom training experience in the principles of clinical and basic laboratory investigation and biostatistics to study the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and the effects of exercise training and dietary modification on metabolism and cardiovascular function in older people. The goal is that by completion of their research training experience, these young investigators will have the expertise and skills to perform independent clinical and/or basic research in exercise physiology and aging. The major strengths of this training program are a well-funded faculty with 1) outstanding mentioning experience, 2) strong collaboration and interactions in aging research, 3) available grants to fund trainees to conduct interdisciplinary research, 4) comprehensive didactic curriculum for training, and well-equipped laboratories. The training program includes coursework, weekly seminars, research seminars, journal clubs, and training in the ethical conduct of research. The Program Directors receive guidance in program administration from an NRSA Training Advisory Committee of senior faculty. Facilities include well-equipped human exercise physiology laboratories, exercise training facilities, and clinical and laboratory space for the conduct of clinical investigation and basic biomedical research. Trainees have access to excellent libraries, computers, audiovisual equipment and an extensive curriculum of required courses to supplement their research training in gerontology, exercise physiology, and metabolism research. We are confident that this environment will prepare trainees for academic careers to study the mechanisms by which health promotion, disease prevention and rehabilitative health care strategies through exercise and nutritional interventions will improve the health of the elderly by reducing their risk factors for CVD and improving their functional capacity and quality of life. Andrew P. Goldberg, MD
GRECC/Geriatrics Service (18)
Baltimore VA Medical Center
10 N. Greene Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
410-605-7185 Page 2 top |
