FAQs

• How do I apply to the CBTP?

  In order to join the CBTP, please send us the following information. We will use the information to keep you apprised of the activities in the CBTP.  

  Name
  Program
  Labs in which you have rotated or plan to rotate
  Mentor, if chosen
  Email contact
  Postal mail contact

• I understand the class requirements are Che 541/542/543. I am wondering if it is necessary to register for Che 541 if Graduate Biochemistry has already been taken?
  No. You should not register for CHE541.  CHE541 and MCB/BSB 520 both qualify as the first semester course and prerequisite for CHE 542 and CHE543. 
• If I have another fellowship, can I still apply for the CBTP?
  Yes. 
• I would like to know if there is anything I should be doing during my first year if I am interested in the program?
  In order to be eligible for the CBTP you need to be admitted to a participating graduate program (CHE, BSB, Pharm, MGM), pursue the CBTP coursework and rotate in one of the CBTP laboratories.
• Why should I participate in CBTP?
  This training program provides an interfacial curriculum that will train students in the application of the quantitative and synthetic methods of chemistry to biology.  Trainees are a core component of the Chemical Biology community on campus, which is centered in the Institute of Chemical Biology & Drug Discovery.  The Institute holds an annual symposium in which all CBTP students participate.  In addition, trainees will learn how to communicate their science to the public.  Other special activities are held throughout the year. 
• I do not have a "co-advisor." What would their responsibilities be, so I would be able to tell them what to expect if they agree to become a co-advisor?
  A co-advisor is a faculty member who adds chemical or biological breadth to your thesis mentoring.  Their duties are intellectual, not financial, just as the rest of your thesis committee, but someone whose own research expertise is a bit closer to your project than may always be the case for a thesis committee. 
• I am an M.D./Ph.D. student who is about to finish the first year of PhD studies. I have not yet taken CHE 542 or CHE 543. Would I be able to take those during the training grant period?
   Yes, you would.  However, if you are already receiving NIH-training grant support through the MSTP program, you will not be considered for CBTP fellowships.
• Can I be part of the CBTP without receiving training grant support?
   All interested students who are members of participating graduate programs (CHE, BSB, Pharm, MGM) may join the CBTP.
• I am curious about the application process and what I need to do.
  A description of the application process has been posted here.  There are two components.  

  1. Identifying your interest to the Program Directors so that we may provide you with information about activities in Chemical Biology.
  2. Applying for fellowship support.
• How many people will be accepted into this program?
  All interested students who are members of participating graduate programs (CHE, BSB, Pharm, MGM) may join the CBTP.  If a student is pursuing a PhD in a CBTP laboratory, in early May of  their first or second year they may apply for a Chemistry-Biology Training Grant fellowship for funding in their second and/or third year.  Six NIH-funded and University-funded fellowships are available each year.