Other closely related doctoral programs may be selected, such as Biology , Biomedical Engineering , and Biophysics. Information about any of the programs or others of pertinence may be obtained from the individual doctoral program offices. Adjustments in the requirements and procedures have been made for the core doctoral programs and others to facilitate the intermeshing of those educational programs with the Medical Scientist Training Program. Laboratory rotations customarily start during the first summer prior to the start of classes. The period between the first and second years provides for a longer second experience.
Further opportunities exist in the third year.
Three rotations are standard, although the number required is individually considered. The purpose of these rotations is to allow students time and opportunity to find a lab in which to complete their dissertation. The entering MSTP fellows are not required to select a doctoral field until mid-way through the second year although they may do so earlier if they wish. By the end of that year, they are required to have selected a mentor within their field. Thesis research is guided by a mentor or by co-mentors.