The program has been designed to allow changes in field during the first year of study with minimal disruptions. The main goal of the program is to train independent research scientists. To this end students begin laboratory rotations soon after arrival and are immersed in research projects even as they take courses their first year. Students participate in at least two research rotations of approximately 3 months each in laboratories of their choice. These rotations allow students to explore different disciplines and to familiarize themselves with the research environment in the laboratories of different potential Ph.D. mentors.
Students can meet faculty to discuss research opportunities in a number of different ways.
Students with pre-existing research interests are encouraged to contact individual faculty members before or soon after arrival in Ann Arbor. In addition, individual programs hold retreats and orientation events that are open to first year students for interacting with the faculty and students in that particular program in smaller settings. At the end of the first year students affiliate with Ph. D mentors by mutual agreement and make final choices of Ph.D. programs. All students are expected to take formal, graduate level courses designed to enhance training in their chosen field.