The program offers exceptional research opportunities for graduate training in autoimmunity, biotechnology, cancer biology, environmental microbiology, genetic engineering of microorganisms, lymphocyte activation and development, microbial pathogenesis, molecular genetics of disease, superantigens, and vascular biology and inflammation. Students must write and defend a thesis based on original research. The final exam is oral. Beginning study in the fall, students spend their first year on major coursework, identifying an adviser by doing laboratory rotations, selecting a track, and initiating their thesis research project. In addition to coursework and research, students have opportunities to participate in laboratory meetings, journal clubs, and student research seminars, and to assist in laboratory courses.
Most students complete the Ph.D. in four to five years.
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