Banner graphic: UCD T32 Chemical Biology application live; deadline Sept 7, 2026

FAQ

The 2026 CBP Trainee Application is now open! Thinking about applying for the T32 Fellowship? We have put together this FAQ page based on real questions from current and past trainees to help you navigate the application process. 

Don't see your question here? Reach out to CBP Coordinator, Melanie Naraval, and Co-Directors Sheila David and Marie Heffern.

General

  • Can international students apply?
  • Unfortunately, no. The CBP T32 Fellowship is no longer able to support international students at this time.
  • I am a rising third year in my Ph.D. program, can I apply?
  • Yes. This 2026-2027 academic year is the first year we will be opening up the application to rising second and third years that are in the labs of one or more of our faculty trainers and already be engaged in thesis research at the chemistry/biology interface.
  • What are my responsibilities as a CBP Trainee?
  • The Program Information page goes into detail events, activities, and courses trainees are required to attend and complete.

Cross-Training

  • Do I need to have my cross-training rotation planned out before submitting my application?
  • Yes. You will need to provide a a brief plan of your cross-training and how this plan will advance the goals to your research project and your career goals. While it is not required, a letter from the PI of the cross-training lab is highly recommended (you may also provide forwarded emails or in PDF format).
  • Does my cross-training PI need to be a member of CBP?
  • No, your cross-trainer does not need to be a member nor apply to be a member of CBP.
  • What makes for a strong cross-training rotation?

  • The picture below provides different cross-training rotations previous trainees participated in. Each example shows a rotation for a trainee housed in the six different grad groups affiliated with CBP.

    Diagram of colored ovals around a central gray Projects oval, labeled with cross-training rotations across the six affiliated grad groups.
  • If awarded, when do I need to start my cross-training rotation? 
  • For trainees who applied before the start of their second year, they must complete one quarter of their cross-training before the end of their second year of CBP funding.
    Trainees who applied before the start of their third year, they must complete one quarter before the end of their one year of CBP funding.
  • If awarded, what are the cross-training expectations?
  • Trainees must complete the cross-disciplinary research training for a duration of one quarter or longer. Evidence of productive research collaborating arising from the cross-training rotation must be provided to the program in the form of a joint publication or joint grant application prior to the trainee's graduation.