Stanford University CIRM Scholar Training Program in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine

A major goal of stem cell research is harnessing their remarkable potential for treating human diseases. The Stanford inter-departmental CIRM Scholar Training Program in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine provides outstanding training in translational stem cell research.

Our CIRM Scholar faculty have expertise in a wide variety of scientific disciplines, as well as clinical expertise in cancer therapy, gene therapy, and bone marrow transplantation. Given the importance of stem cells in tissue health and disease, a large proportion of our faculty conduct translational research and many are practicing clinicians. The Stanford CIRM Scholar program provides outstanding training in translational stem cell research.  Our CIRM Scholar students receive a customized education with a core curriculum tailored to the interface of medicine and science. CIRM Scholar students also have the opportunity to engage with faculty in the Stanford Center for Definitive and Curative Medicine (CDCM), a joint initiative of the Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford Health Care and Stanford Children’s Health. The CDCM is co-directed by three CIRM Scholar faculty members also in the SCBRM. CIRM Scholar students and postdoctoral fellows may elect to be co-mentored by PIs with basic and translational research programs, thereby directly bridging science and medicine during pursuit of their PhD. The  CIRM Scholar Program is based in the Lorry Lokey Stem Cell Research Building, where students will benefit from a dynamic community of PhD students in other fields, postdoctoral fellows, and a large number of MD/PhD students.

Mission statement. 

The mission of the Stanford CIRM Scholar Training Program in Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine is to rigorously train early career investigators in translational research. Unlike other PhD programs at Stanford, the CIRM Scholar program and curriculum provide education and training that specifically integrates science and medicine.

Program Leadership

The Stanford CIRM Scholar Training Program in Molecular Medicine is directed by Tushar Desai, MD and Gerald Spangrude, PhD.

Program Eligibility. 

The CIRM Scholar Training Program in Molecular Medicine is open to US citizens or permanent residents.

How to Apply.

The application process for the Molecular Medicine Training Program is integrated with the Stem Cell Biology PhD application. You may indicate your potential interest in this program during the application process, so there is no need to apply separately.