Doctoral Training Timeline in the Experimental Pathology Graduate Program (EPGP)
The Experimental Pathology Graduate Program (EPGP) typically requires approximately five years to complete. The program integrates coursework, research, professional development, and scientific communication, with key activities outlined by year:
Year 1: Foundational Training and Rotations
In the first term, students complete core courses in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology and Genetics, Biostatistics, and Responsible Conduct in Biomedical Research, all part of the Basic Biomedical Sciences Curriculum (BBSC). The BBSC provides a rigorous, multidisciplinary foundation in the biomedical sciences before students begin specialized training in Experimental Pathology.
During Terms II and III, students begin Program-specific coursework and complete laboratory rotations starting in the latter half of Term I. Throughout the first year, students are fully supported by the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences (GSBS).
Year 2: Coursework Completion and Qualifying Exams
Students finish the EPGP-specific coursework and undertake the qualifying examination, which includes both written and oral components as outlined by the Student Evaluation and Advisory Committee (SEAC). Upon successful completion, students begin formal development of their dissertation research. Second-year students also participate in the weekly Experimental Pathology Work-in-Progress (WIP) seminar (PATH 6115), where they deliver an introductory 30-minute presentation on their research. These sessions foster scientific feedback and presentation skills and are attended by faculty, students, and postdoctoral fellows. Students are also expected to attend additional seminars, including Frontiers of Infectious Diseases (PATH 6145).
Year 3: Advancement to Candidacy and Research Focus
Students intensify their research efforts and participate in journal clubs and seminar series. During the first term, they balance laboratory work with drafting their dissertation proposal, which they defend orally by the end of the spring term (May) to formally advance to doctoral candidacy. Students also begin applying for intramural and extramural funding and are encouraged to present their findings at scientific conferences at the local, national, and international levels. Mentors provide primary research direction and day-to-day guidance.
Year 4: Research Progress and Dissemination
Students continue to focus on experimental research and regularly present their work in WIP seminars. They meet semiannually with their Supervisory Committee to report progress and receive feedback. Revisions to the dissertation project are reviewed and approved at this stage. Students typically present their research at scientific conferences, further refining their communication and networking skills.
Year 5: Dissertation Writing and Defense
In the final year, students complete experimental work, prepare manuscripts for publication, and draft their dissertation. They continue to present at scientific meetings while exploring postdoctoral opportunities. The doctoral training culminates in the public and private defense of the dissertation. Upon successful defense and approval by the Supervisory Committee, and the fulfillment of all course requirements, the student is awarded the Ph.D. degree.
Departmental Events
The Department of Pathology Annual Trainee Research Day, held each year since 1995, provides a platform for students to showcase their research to a broader academic audience.