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?” | September 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
Join Dr. Ilhem Messaoudi, Vice President for Research, Chair of the Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, and TTMI T32 Executive Council Member, for a discussion on how to identify opportunities, build connections, and initiate successful research collaborations.
October 8, 2026 | 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. ET
A UKY login is required to access the Zoom webinar.
"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.