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Macromolecular Interfaces with Life Sciences (MILES): Oxidative Processes Graduate Certificate & Fellowship Opportunity |
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Macromolecular
Interfaces with Life Sciences (MILES) is an Integrative Graduate Research
and Education Traineeship (IGERT) sponsored by the National Science Foundation
(NSF). Seventeen CORE faculty in 10 departments and 4 colleges collaborate
to conduct research that shares the common theme of oxidative processes.
Oxidative processes occur within both synthetic macromolecules and biological
systems, offering a common scientific basis. Oxygen-centered radicals are
implicated as intermediates in a number of chemical and biological processes
including lipid oxidation, cellular aging and product deterioration, and
certain enzyme-mediated processes. Control of oxidative processes, using
antioxidants or other free radical control mechanisms, is paramount to protecting
structure, function and aging integrity of both natural and synthetic macromolecules.
The profound irony underlying all oxidation chemistry is that, in general
terms at least, the same element that nature uses to sustain and regenerate
life also plays a role in aging, disease, and death. The development of
antioxidant delivery systems, including antioxidant enriched foods, novel
biocompatible synthetic polymer delivery systems, and new natural and synthetic
macromolecular antioxidants would be advantageous to combating oxidation-based
diseases and aging. In addition, advantageous oxidative processes will result
in the preparation of well defined macromolecular precursors that are derived
from renewable resources such as triglycerides.
The purpose of the MILES-IGERT option is to equip a new generation of professionals with skills that will move society forward into an era of sustained health, well-being, and quality of life through technological advancements. Ultimately, the program will equip future leaders in science and engineering with the broad-based skills necessary to transcend conventional boundaries. The MILES-IGERT is graduate certification program open to any qualified student interested in pursuing a Ph.D. studying oxidation at the macromolecular interface. In addition, the MILES-IGERT offers a COMPETITIVE FELLOWSHIP for qualified students interested in obtaining the MILES-IGERT graduate certificate. For more information, see the MILES website at: www.chem.vt.edu/milesigert |
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