The Pittsburgh Gene Therapy Bootcamp is an eight-week hands-on course covering main topics in the field of gene therapy, including gene delivery, gene augmentation, genome editing, optogenetics, and ethics. The course includes hands-on training in AAV viral vector packaging and purification, and once-a-week guest lectures. As part of wetlab training, students will perform gene therapy experiments and collect data for a manuscript to be posted on bioRxiv. Students will have opportunities to network with professionals working in the field of gene therapy, including genetic counselors, local biotech companies, physicians, and academics. Lectures are free and open to the community.

The course will run from July 1, 2024 - August 23rd, 2024, meeting 2 days a week (Wednesdays 9:00 - 4:00 for wet labs and Fridays 11:00 -1:00 for lectures). Applications are welcome from graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. Summer course credit is available through the University of Pittsburgh. No prior experience is required, however, full participation in the course is required for enrollment. Slots are limited for the course, but the program is offered on a yearly basis, and we encourage applicants to reapply. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance to the program by April 1st.