Performing Department
(N/A)
Non Technical Summary
This initiative aims to strengthen U.S. aquaculture by addressing the critical shortage of scientists skilled in stem cell technology, xenogenesis, and reproductive techniques. Despite significant advancements in these fields over the past two decades, their application in aquaculture has been limited. Our program seeks to translate these scientific achievements into practical tools that enhance fish production and ensure the sustainability and quality of aquaculture products.Key Objectives:Education and Training: Develop a graduate program that equips students with a unique blend of skills in stem cell applications, xenogenesis, and aquaculture.Research and Innovation: Foster cutting-edge research in genetic and reproductive technologies to innovate aquaculture practices.Professional Development: Prepare graduates for impactful careers in both the academic and private sectors, emphasizing practical applications and global competencies.Expected Outcomes:Train four graduate fellows (two master's and two doctoral) with specialized knowledge and skills.Enhance research output and innovation in aquaculture through publications and new technologies.Establish a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to contribute to and expand the aquaculture industry.This project will not only fill a significant gap in current aquaculture expertise but also bolster rural economies by supporting sustainable business practices and improving food security.
Animal Health Component
40%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
60%
Applied
40%
Developmental
0%
Goals / Objectives
The goal is to enhance US aquaculture by overcoming the shortage of scientists cross-trained in stem cell technology, xenogenesis, and reproduction. During the past 20 years, stem cell technology, xenogenesis, and reproduction have experienced tremendous advancement. However, this research had minimal impact on the US aquaculture industry.This project seeks to advance this area. It translates the progress into more rapid aquaculture applications to increase production and ensure safe, high-quality food for consumers. It will also expand rural business opportunities and rural quality of life. This requires scientists to have a combination of skills in stem cell technology, xenogenesis, and reproduction.The US has a shortage of young scientists trained in agriculture technologies since stem cell technology has focused primarily on human medicine. We propose a graduate program for Fellows uniquely trained in stem cell technology, xenogenesis, and reproduction through research, teaching, and interaction with mentors to address this problem within a 4-year timeframe. Two master's and two doctoral students will train in Japan post-first year, one master's funded by an external scholarship. Fellows will be trained in integrated, holistic graduate work combining these technologies for innovation research and application in aquaculture.This project is relevant as it addresses a void in US expertise in a relatively new integrated field with little aquaculture expertise. The measurable national impact is an increased number of trained scientists in this area, an increase in research output, and the application of these technologies in the aquaculture industry, including new, innovative businesses.
Project Methods
Here is a comprehensive integration of the methods for this fellowship program, aiming to outline the structured and detailed approach for recruiting, training, and assessing fellows:Recruitment and Selection: We will implement a strategic recruitment plan, partnering with organizations that connect us to underrepresented and highly qualified candidates. Efforts will include networking through NSF human resources, minority recruitment initiatives on campus, veteran associations, and collaborations with institutions like Tuskegee University and Alabama A&M.Academic Advising and Training: The program will develop fellows' expertise in stem cell technology, xenogenesis, and fish culture through rigorous academic advising and hands-on research training. Performance evaluations will be based on established fellowship outcomes, utilizing regular mentor meetings and an online tracking system.Experiential Learning and Professional Development: Fellows will participate in diverse research projects and gain practical experience in teaching and extension activities. The program includes international training in Japan, enhancing fellows' global competencies and collaborative skills.Mentoring and Monitoring: Regular mentoring sessions will ensure fellows' alignment with the program's academic and research milestones. Monitoring extends for at least five years post-completion to gauge the long-term impact of the training.Outcome Measurement: Success will be measured by fellows' academic and research achievements and their employment rates in relevant fields. Regular interactions with the private sector will provide practical experience and enhance job readiness.Additional Components: The program will include evaluation metrics, feedback mechanisms, collaboration opportunities, professional development workshops, and sustainability studies. These components are designed to support the fellows' growth and the program's continuous improvement.This comprehensive method ensures a holistic approach to developing the next generation of experts in aquaculture and related fields.