The first part consists of a set of written quarterly examinations based on literature provided in advance. Students select from a variety of exam topics offered each quarter. The second portion of the examination asks the student to prepare a written research proposal and defend it orally. Successful completion of the comprehensive examination allows the student to be advanced to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. In addition to courses, students have ample opportunity to attend laboratory meetings, journal clubs, seminars, and symposia related to their interests.
Most laboratories have regular meetings, which are often open to other members of the institute.
Several informal neuroscience and developmental biology journal clubs meet weekly and are conducted and attended by institute faculty members, students, and outside speakers. The purpose of these meetings is to evaluate and discuss primary research papers of topical interest. Graduate students frequently lead discussions at these journal clubs, which have evolved into an important and invaluable component of the training programs in neuroscience and developmental biology. During the academic year, the institute sponsors a weekly seminar series by distinguished lecturers visiting the University of Oregon. In keeping with the unique interactive research atmosphere at the University of Oregon, neuroscience graduate students also are encouraged to participate in journal clubs, meetings, and seminars offered by other research groups at the university, particularly those held in cognitive neuroscience, molecular biology, genetics, and cell and developmental biology.