Transdisciplinary Training in Microbiology and Immunology
The University of Kentucky’s recently funded TTMI T32 training program led by Drs. Sarah D’Orazio and Lyse Norian is seeking applicants for three pre-doctoral trainees. The primary objective of TTMI is to give graduate students performing microbiology or immunology research the opportunity to establish their own collaborative subaim of their dissertation under the mentorship and direct guidance of the Program Faculty and Executive Committee Members. TTMI encourages cross-college collaborations to promote transdisciplinary research that offers a synergistic approach with new perspectives to address a research question.
To help trainees put together a competitive application, we are offering the following series of workshops:
“What is Transdisciplinary Research?” | Sept. 21, 2026
TTMI T32 Co-Directors Drs. Sarah D’Orazio and Lyse Norian introduced the program and discussed what transdisciplinary research means in the context of TTMI.
Missed the seminar? Watch the recording below!
“How to Initiate a Research Collaboration” | October 8, 2026
Dr. Ilhem Messaoudi, University of Kentucky Vice President for Research and Chair of the Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, discusses how to identify potential collaborators, build connections, and initiate successful research partnerships. TTMI co-directors Dr. Sarah D’Orazio and Dr. Lyse Norian join the Q&A discussion to answer participants’ questions about research collaborations and the TTMI program.
"TTMI Brainstorming Session" | October 29, 2026
Members of the TTMI Executive Council that represent the Colleges of Medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health, Engineering, and Agriculture will hold an in person brainstorming session for potential applicants to discuss ideas for their transdisciplinary aim and potential collaborators who may be able to work with them.
October 29, 2026 | 1– 2 p.m. ET | Willard Medical Education Building MS403
In-Person Event - No Registration Necessary
Application Deadline | December 1, 2026
Applications will be reviewed by TTMI Executive Council members. Appointments for the selected trainees will begin 01/01/27.