M.D. While the university offers a range of opportunities from biochemistry to organ physiology, anesthesiology and critical care integrates these multiple systems into a larger perspective of human pathophysiology and pharmacology. Students have opportunities for research in cardiovascular and respiratory physiology, molecular pharmacology, neurobiology, and environmental science. Regardless of ultimate career choice, investigation in anesthesiology and critical care medicine provides strong basic science grounding and application of research principles. An area of independent study is defined and a hypothesis proposed as part of an ongoing interaction between the student and the laboratory mentor. Necessary methodological skills are learned by the student early in the course of study to allow data acquisition for subsequent analysis and interpretation.
Emphasis is placed on experimental design and statistical analysis.
At the end of the year, each student is expected to have completed a project of sufficient merit to warrant presentation and publication. Further, the Department offers a unique opportunity for the students to present their projects in a formal setting moderated by an external reviewer of national stature. Additional courses in Advanced Diving Physiology and Medicine will be available for interested students. Students meet with the Coordinating Director weekly to monitor progress in the laboratory. The Course Directors meet on a monthly basis regarding course direction and the individual progress of students in the laboratories.