The LIFE Course Program at the University of Virginia
There are two parts to the academic program. The first consists of the program of study that your PhD requires. In addition, the following specific LIFE training is offered and required. All courses are taught in English.
1) Participation in four one- week long semi annual academies on LIFE Course research and theory. These academies are akin to conferences where fellows are expected to participate and faculty deliver lectures and feedback on the fellows’ work. You can participate by offering research at the academies through posters, informal presentations and/or formal presentations.These academies are offered twice a year. The location alternates between Germany and the United States.
2) Successful completion of seminars on research and theory in biological, psychological, sociological, educational, and anthropological/cultural aspects of the LIFE course offered at the University of Virginia.
Students participating in LIFE at the University of Virginia may also be interested in spending a semester or summer working with Berlin faculty on a collaborative research project and/or participating in other designated conferences or conferences being held in conjunction with our international partner institutions. Limited expenses for such activities are funded by the program and funds can be applied for after a student has completed one LIFE academy.
Beyond these requirements and opportunities, fellows receive invaluable contact with premier faculty in these fields and opportunities to forge their own professional collaborations.
How To Apply To The LIFE Course Program
The LIFE Research School is intended for graduate students who intend to pursue an academic research and teaching career. Maximum length of study is three years. To apply to the LIFE program, you must be a University of Virginia PhD or post-doctoral student.
The primary disciplines involved are: evolutionary biology, developmental and aging biology, developmental and cognitive psychology, social psychology, sociology, linguistics, anthropology, and education. But LIFE is a multidisciplinary program and applicants from any discipline are encouraged to apply.Typically, a student will have at least two advisors, one from UVa and one from another participating institution including the MPI. In addition, successful LIFE students will obtain a certificate from the International Max Planck Research School LIFE.
You are welcome to apply at any time during the year and we will make available materials form past academies to allow you to explore your interest in the program. Please send a letter describing the reasons for your interest in the program and a letter of recommendation from a Virginia faculty member to Juanita Geer (jgeer@virginia.edu). There is no formal application process; interested persons will receive individualized attention. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions about the program.
