Rheumatology Research Training
The University of Pittsburgh provides an integrated research training environment designed to prepare the next generation of physician-scientists and interdisciplinary investigators. Fellows benefit from a broad spectrum of opportunities in basic, translational, clinical, and population health research, supported by structured mentorship, individualized career development plans, and access to cutting-edge facilities and resources. Complementing these offerings, the Physician Scientist Incubator program specifically supports MD trainees pursuing pre-clinical research careers, providing comprehensive training in scientific, professional, and resilience skills, with funding from the Burroughs Wellcome Foundation, UPMC, and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Together, these programs cultivate investigators equipped to advance biomedical knowledge, lead innovative studies, and translate discoveries into improved patient care.
The Division of Rheumatology also participates in the T32 Autoimmunity and Immunopathology Training Program (AI/IP), which provides fellows and students with structured coursework, mentored research projects, and financial support. This program is designed to give trainees a deep understanding of the basic mechanisms underlying tissue injury caused by inappropriate immune responses, the effector mechanisms of the immune system acting on self tissues, and the processes of immune regulation and tolerance as they relate to autoimmune disease and immunopathology. Fellows also gain expertise in the responsible conduct of research while developing essential career development and managerial skills to prepare them for leadership roles in academic medicine and investigative careers.