The Great Falls campus of the Weissman Hood Institute at Touro University serves as a hub for integrated biomedical and rural health research, emphasizing neurogenetics, brain health, and translational medicine tailored to rural communities. Affiliated closely with the Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (TouroCOM) Montana campus just two blocks away, it provides unique educational opportunities blending rigorous research training with medical education. Faculty and students engage in cutting-edge studies on devastating brain diseases, leveraging state-of-the-art facilities including a barrier animal facility for mouse models and advanced molecular labs.
- Neurogenetics and Neuroscience: Core focus on Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, prion diseases, and serine homeostasis for brain health across the lifespan. Training includes courses in genetic mechanisms of neurodegeneration, neuroimaging techniques, and therapeutic development.
- Immunology and Immunogenetics: Building on historical strengths, programs cover immune system disorders, with hands-on labs in immunogenetics and autoimmunity research.
- Rural Health and Women's Health: Specialized studies on chronic pain, type 2 diabetes polypharmacy, and healthcare disparities in rural America, including community-based clinical research training.
- Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP): Prestigious MD/PhD pathway for TouroCOM students, offering dual training in clinical medicine and basic/translational research.
- Biomedical Research Internships and Outreach: Summer programs for high school and undergraduate students, featuring mentorship in lab techniques, data analysis, scientific writing, and community science education initiatives.
This campus fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing the next generation of physician-scientists to address global health challenges with a particular emphasis on rural and underserved populations. Opportunities extend to faculty promotions, career development awards, and partnerships with national research networks.
