The CATER training program provides a solid foundation in the discipline of Regenerative Medicine (RM) with a special focus on Synthetic Biology, to eventually build a productive independent career in cell and tissue-based therapy for human disease and injury. This goal is accomplished via mentored inter- and multi-disciplinary training in the laboratories of selected training faculty, a combination of required and elective courses, specialized training opportunities including professional development, internships and community and leadership building. The CATER program incorporates selected faculty from the School of Engineering, School of Medicine and the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, to provide a unique educational and research experience in cellular and tissue regeneration and engineering, and with emphasis on timely and innovative concepts like synthetic biology. CATER mentors reside in diverse departments like bioengineering, cell biology, developmental biology, pathology, surgery, systems and computational biology, and immunology and belong to institutes like McGowan Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Hillman Cancer Center, and others, highlighting diversity. The CATER program, thus provides, access to a rich educational and training experience that could not be obtained within the individual university departments or graduate programs. Instruction in RM involves training in cell-based therapies, extracellular matrix and biomaterials, stem cells, and synthetic biology, all with an overall focus on tissue biology, repair, engineering and application. CATER training based on trainee’s goals, is enabled by the mentor’s research lab, didactic courses, CATER seminars, professional development opportunities and CATER internships.
Applications for the CATER Program are not currently being accepted. The application period is typically during May-June of each year. Please email Amanda Bytzura at amb430@pitt.edu for more information on the application process and materials.
