Bridging the geroscience chasm between bench and bedside.

ABSTRACT

Geroscience-based therapeutics have the opportunity to transform the field of geriatric medicine, yet few training programs afford scholars with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to successfully design and implement geroscience trials. We have developed a 2 year curriculum with two different training tracks for aging science scholars. The training tracks capitalize on the strengths and skillsets of eligible candidates. Both pathways afford scholars the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of aging research and the opportunity to apply this knowledge via a mentored translational research project. The two training pathways capitalize on existing clinical and research training infrastructures and include required and elective coursework, longitudinal clinical experiences, small group discussions, laboratory experience, and mentored translational research. This first of its kind geroscience training program is a potential feasible, scalable solution to the existing training gap. We believe that the Kogod Scholars Program at the Mayo Clinic can serve as a prototype for other academic aging centers.