2011-2012 Catalog
The Ph.D. training program at VAI Graduate School (VAIGS) will include the following:
Coursework
- Students will learn core concepts in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, bioinformatics and pathophysiology through a series of short but intense courses based on current research questions regarding human diseases, notably cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
Students will work cooperatively to develop experimental strategies to address those questions. In the process, they will acquire both the specific knowledge on which those strategies are based and the skills of searching out that knowledge.
Each problem-based course will be explored continuously for several weeks.
- Students will meet weekly for semester-long courses in translational research and in historical perspectives on medical research.
- Training in responsible and effective conduct of research will be conducted in a one-semester course that prepares students for many of the cognate responsibilities of research leadership.
- Students will participate in at least three graduate seminar courses on special topics. These courses engage students in analyzing and discussing the current scientific literature relevant to active research programs at Van Andel Research Institute (VARI). Seminar courses typically meet weekly and often feature student presentations, which help develop oral communication skills.
Research Rotations
These rotations acquaint students with the research, methods and operations of various VARI laboratories. Entering students will complete three seven-week rotations in various laboratories at VARI prior to selecting a thesis advisor.
Thesis Research
Essential to a doctoral degree program is the completion of an original and creative research project resulting in the compilation of a doctoral dissertation. The dissertation should demonstrate that the researcher has the knowledge, skill, and scientific maturity to design and execute independent research of a quality consistent with reports published in refereed scientific journals. A VAIGS faculty member serves as the principal thesis advisor. Other faculty serve on the student’s thesis advisory committee which meets at least twice annually to review and evaluate the progress and plans for the project.
Preliminary Examination
The preliminary examination is completed in the second year of the VAIGS program. Each student will write a proposal outlining the background, preliminary results, and experimental plan for their thesis research. A second proposal explores an additional, non-thesis research question. A public oral presentation of these proposals will be followed by an oral examination in which faculty probe the student’s knowledge of the concepts and methods of the field of study as well as the student’s skills in critically analyzing research results.
Teaching Experience
Given that many scientists serve as faculty at institutions of higher education, training in teaching of science at the college level is available depending on student interest. A one-semester teaching experience may be coordinated with local colleges and universities that offer appropriate courses in which the VAIGS student can serve as a teaching assistant, with instruction and supervision by experienced faculty.
Clinical Studies
Effective translational research requires familiarity with both basic science mechanisms and clinical applications. To develop such an understanding, VAIGS students may attend clinical Grand Rounds or Tumor Board meetings at area hospitals. Students with sufficient medical training may also undertake more extensive clinical rotations and clinical research projects.
Seminars, Journal Clubs and Research Reports
VARI conducts institute-wide weekly journal clubs on topics of general and current interest, as well as a weekly seminar on research in progress in VARI laboratories. Students are expected to attend weekly and to present at these meetings on an annual basis. The Institute also hosts a weekly series of seminars by speakers from other institutions (the VARI Seminar Series). Students are encouraged to attend these seminars and to meet with the visiting scientists to discuss their research and their scientific life.
Professional and Career Development
The VAIGS program will be enriched by a series of occasional workshops and training sessions to facilitate the transition from graduate student to professional scientist. These events may include training in writing and reviewing grants and manuscripts, oral presentation skills, financial and personnel management, conflict resolution and leadership and team-building skills. Each year, students will attend national or international meetings relevant to their field of study, supported by VAI Graduate School.
