DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): This is a new proposal of a training program in systemic autoimmunity at the Beth Israel Medical Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), Harvard Medical School (HMS). It requests support for two trainees each year who will spend at least two years in the program. Trainees will enter the program through one of the following tracks: Physicians who seek training in rheumatology or nephrology, physicians who enter other clinical fellowship programs including neurology and dermatology, physicians who have completed clinical training in a field relevant to systemic autoimmune diseases and PhDs with background in immunology, biochemistry and cell/molecular biology. The major criterion for selection will be evidence of commitment to the study of systemic autoimmune diseases. Through this training physicians will develop skills in immunology and biology/biochemistry, whereas PhDs will become familiar with clinical issues pertinent to the study of systemic autoimmune diseases. Research activities will span studies in human and animal T cells, B cells, NKT cells, macrophages, mast cells, costimulation, immune cell signaling, immune tolerance, control of cytokine expression and function, pertinent aspects of regional immunology and biology (kidney, skin and nervous system), human genetics, immunodeficiency, complement and immunomodulation. The chief method of instruction will involve personal involvement in a program of basic research under the close supervision of a senior scientist. Moreover, a structured program of didactic courses in research seminars, journal clubs, research presentations in national and international meetings and grant writing is in place. The primary facilities for training are at BIDMC and HMS-affiliated institutions. Graduating trainees will be able to plan, seek funding, and execute cutting edge research in systemic autoimmune diseases and will be properly tooled to develop new diagnostics and therapeutics. This program will develop top notch researchers in the study of systemic autoimmune diseases who will lead basic and clinical research in academic centers to advance the care of people suffering from these diseases.