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Training Program
[ Core
Curriculum | Laboratory Rotations | Advanced
Coursework ]
[ Training Outside of the University | Other
Program Activities ]
The overall purpose of the training
program is to provide students with the approprite background for pursuing
advanced study in developmental biology and to expose students to different
approaches and issues in developmental biology as preparation for a career
in this field. The program is University-wide allowing students to take
advantage of resources available in a number of different departments.
Upon entering the program students are advised by the Developmental Biology
Program steering committee to plan an appropriate c urriculum for the
first year. After each student completes three laboratory rotations during
the course of the first year they choose a Ph.D. advisor and then become
an official member of their research supervisor's home department, from
which they will receive their Ph.D. degree. Although students will receive
their degree from one of the participating departments after the first
year they will continue to meet with the Developmental Biology Program
steering committee for advising purposes and will con tinue to participate
in the program in ways described below.
1. Core
Curriculum
During the first year students will take a
number of graduate courses that are considered to be essential background
for future graduate work. The program is tailored to a particular student's
background and interests, but typically would include advance d courses
in cell biology, genetics, development and biochemistry.
2. Laboratory
Rotations
During the first year students will typically
perform rotations in laboratories from three of the seven areas represented
in the program (cell differentiation, early development, genetics, morphogenesis,
neurogenesis, organogenesis and signal transduction ). At the end of
the first year students will then choose a laboratory for their PhD
research.
3. Advanced
Coursework
During the second year and beyond students
will be encouraged to take coursework that is particularly relevant
to their research projects, e.g. courses in developmental neurobiology
or advanced genetics. In addition students will be required to complete
colloquia in three of the seven areas of the program. These are small
classes in which both faculty and students will spend a semester covering
a timely subject in one of the areas of specialty in the program.
4. Training
Outside of the University
There are a number of advanced, specialized
courses in the area of developmental biology taught throughout the country,
and in other parts of the world (e.g. at Woods Hole and Cold Spring
Harbor Laboratory). These courses can provide an exceptional train ing
opportunity and students will normally be expected to participate in
one of these courses during their tenure as a student in the program.
5. Other
Program Activities
As part of the training
program students are expected to participate in the Development Center's
Seminar Program, including hosting visiting speakers. Yearly symposia
will highlight research activities of participants and outside experts
in a particular research area. Students are encouraged to present their
research findings at national or international meetings as part of the
program's continuing goal of providing opportunities to help students
prepare for independent careers following their graduate work.
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