The research adviser may even be affiliated with another university such as the Oregon Health Sciences University in Portland. Such interdisciplinary research programs are strongly encouraged. Regardless of the affiliation of the mentor, students must continue to meet with the dissertation committee no less than once each year to keep committee members informed of the progress of the dissertation research. The final, written dissertation is defended in an oral presentation open to all members of the university. In keeping with the institute's expressed policy of allowing students to begin their research as soon as they enter the program, the graduate program in requires a minimum amount of course work.
New students complete a set of core courses as arranged with their interim advisory committee.
Other specialized core course requirements may be developed in consultation with the Interim Advisory Committee. The core courses expose graduate students to basic principles using primary literature and highlighting research areas, ideas, and techniques. An undergraduate level neurobiology course is also available for students who feel their background in neuroscience is limited. Many other graduate level courses in neuroscience and development, including developmental neurobiology, neurochemistry, neuroethology, and neuroendocrinology, typically are offered every other year. This requirement usually is completed during the first year.