Systems Toxicology T32 Program Nurtures Scientific Discourse with Paracelsus Society Monthly Meetings
December 2023
The Systems Toxicology (SyTOX) T32 Program takes a dynamic approach to foster learning and collaboration through its Paracelsus Society monthly meetings. Named after the renowned Swiss physician who pioneered the concept of refining raw substances in medicine while minimizing potential toxicological effects, these meetings offer trainees and associate scholars an invaluable platform to delve into and analyze a range of toxicology-related scientific papers. By engaging in thoughtful discussions, the program endeavors to hone critical thinking skills and encourage interdisciplinary perspectives.
The Paracelsus Society monthly meetings provide a unique opportunity for participants in the SyTOX T32 Program to explore and examine an array of toxicology-relevant scientific papers. These papers serve as the foundation for discussions, enabling trainees and scholars to delve into the latest research, methodologies, and emerging trends in the field of toxicology. The rotating selection of papers ensures that participants continuously encounter fresh topics, stimulating vibrant and inclusive dialogue.
Through the Paracelsus Society meetings, the SyTOX T32 Program cultivates critical thinking and analytical skills among its trainees and associate scholars. By dissecting scientific papers, participants are encouraged to critically evaluate research methodologies, data interpretation, and the potential implications of the findings. These discussions provide a platform for exchanging diverse viewpoints, challenging assumptions, and developing a more nuanced understanding of toxicology-related subjects.
Remaining at the forefront of scientific advancements is critical in the field of toxicology. The Paracelsus Society meetings empower participants to stay updated with the latest research and ensure that they are well-informed about emerging topics, methodologies, and breakthroughs in their field. These discussions not only enrich their understanding of toxicological concepts but also equip them with the knowledge needed to develop innovative approaches and solutions.
The SyTOX T32 Program's Paracelsus Society monthly meetings represent a commendable commitment to fostering scientific discourse and advancing knowledge in the field of toxicology. By engaging with and analyzing toxicology-relevant scientific papers, trainees and associate scholars are encouraged to think critically, embrace interdisciplinary perspectives, and contribute to the evolving landscape of toxicological research. These meetings not only strengthen the program's capacity to produce informed and skilled professionals but also highlight their dedication to staying at the forefront of toxicological advancements.
Systems Toxicology T32 Marks 1 Year Anniversary
The Systems Toxicology T32 Training program is celebrating an exciting milestone: The newest funded T32 program just recruited its second year of new trainees and associate scholars. Dr. Tim Nurkiewicz leads the program. The Systems Toxicology T32 provides training that focuses on the mechanisms of toxicology, and specifically looks at the intersection between this and health outcomes in Appalachia. The program was originally born out of a significant infrastructure commitment by the university to create a new Inhalation Facility. That original toxicology working group formed the foundation for preceptors and the training program structure that would later emerge and become funded.
Student Maeve Morris participated as an associate scholar for the training grant’s first fiscal year, but she has since been chosen as an official trainee of the program for its second year. She says of her experience, “The SyTOX T32 program, while new to the University, has demonstrated its dedication to specialized learning opportunities. My toxicology knowledge was limited, but everyone involved in the group is willing to help you learn. I'm looking forward to continued growth and immersing myself into the systems toxicology field.”
Kent Marshall, another graduate student in the program, was appointed as a 2-year trainee this year. “The training program has been transformative for me. My fellow scholars have fostered an environment of critical thinking and learning within our 'Paracelsus Society' to nudge each other outside of our comfort zones, evaluate the work of others, and dissect seminal research. I am very much looking forward to being a second-year trainee, with all the excitement and growth being a WVU T32 scholar has to offer."
Dr. Nurkiewicz says of the program, “This has been an exciting year for the syTOX Training Program, with a wonderful group of inaugural scholars across all of our campuses. As we enter the second year of our training program, our cohort of scholars has grown and matured, with more scholars at different stages of their training. We had a strong presence nationally at the annual Society of Toxicology meeting, and locally at the Allegheny-Erie Regional Chapter of Society of Toxicology meeting. This gave our scholars the opportunity to interact with some very distinguished toxicologists from across the country.”
The SyTOX T32 training program continues to develop new strategies to educate, engage, and provide professional development for its trainees and associate scholars.
