Developing a graduate training program in Synthetic Biology: SynBioCDT

Abstract

This article presents the experience of a team of students and academics in developing a post-graduate training program in the new field of Synthetic Biology. Our Centre for Doctoral Training in Synthetic Biology (SynBioCDT) is an initiative funded by the United Kingdom's Research Councils of Engineering and Physical Sciences (EPSRC), and Biotechnology and Biological Sciences (BBSRC). SynBioCDT is a collaboration between the Universities of Oxford, Bristol and Warwick, and has been successfully running since 2014, training 78 students in this field. In this work, we discuss the organization of the taught, research and career development training. We also address the challenges faced when offering an interdisciplinary program. The article concludes with future directions to continue the development of the SynBioCDT.