Professional Development & Support 

Through coursework in their first and second year, students gain skills in dissecting research papers, writing a research proposal, and presenting their research. These didactic activities are complemented by enrichment activities offered in MCCB, such as the in-house seminar series and cancer-based research retreat, which provide students with additional opportunities to present their work.

In their third and fourth year, students participate in Career Pathways Communities, which are workshops led by professionals with expertise in science career fields including research in academia, industry and government, business and commercial development, and science communication and publishing.

Learn more

All PhD students in their third year or above are required to create and submit an annual Individual Development Plan (IDP), a tool designed to help students plan and achieve their academic and professional goals. IDPs help students reflect on progress over the past year, establish goals for the coming year, and identify resources needed to achieve those goals. Students are encouraged to discuss their IDP with their thesis advisor, thesis research advisory committee, and other mentors as they develop the plan and progress toward their goals.

Learn More