Formal Coursework:
Choice of Two GGSB Tracks: Empirical Track or Computational Track
To obtain a Ph.D. in the Division of Biological Sciences, nine graded courses are required as detailed below.
GGSB has two tracks, one “Empirical Track”, and the other “Computational Biology”. While the two tracks are united by the common goals of using genetic, genomic and systems biology approach to address important biological questions, the training focus is different. Training of the first track is more focused on experimental techniques, especially those quantitative in nature, while the second track builds computational skills of students. The curriculum of the two tracks, as a result, will be different, as outlined below.
CHOICE #1: GGSB EMPIRICAL TRACK (4 REQUIRED COURSES AND 4 ELECTIVES)
CHOICE #2: GGSB COMPUTATIONAL TRACK - 3 REQUIRED COURSES AND 3 CORE ELECTIVES AND 2ADDITIONAL ELECTIVES
Rotations
All GGSB Students are required to undertake short research projects in at least two different laboratories before beginning their dissertation research. These rotations occur during the Spring and Summer quarters of the first academic year. Spring quarter rotations are 10 weeks long (part-time). Summer quarter rotations are five weeks long (full-time).
Allstars
In addition to the course requirements, all GGSB students attend the Faculty Research Seminar Series (also referred to as "AllStars"), to acquaint themselves with the research community and potential mentors. All first year students in the Biological Sciences Division are required to attend a scientific ethics course.
Preliminary Exam
In September, before the start of the second year of the program, students take the Preliminary Exam as a first step towards candidacy for their Ph.D. This is an oral exam in front of an exam committee during which students present answers to questions