CMDB Theme Curriculum
Year One
The first year curriculum consists of a set of GBS core classes, BSSB module classes, and lab rotations. By the second year, there are a limited number of curriculum requirements, with most being determined by the student, mentor, and thesis committee.
Starting in January through April, you will take four course modules. We recommend the four CMDB modules; however, you can choose from an assortment of other modules taught by other themes. This is an example of Spring BBSB module options; please note that it is subject to change for future spring terms:
- GBS 710: Cell Signaling
- GBS 712: Cell Molecular Aspects and Developmental Biology
- GBS 714: Developmental Neurology
- GBS 784: Stem Cell Biology
Once again, these modules are suggest but other modules are accepted.
Summer Semester
All students are expected to take GBSC 722: Intro to Biostats and a May Module. CMDB recommends that all students take GBS 717: Methods and Scientific Logic.
Year Two and Beyond
The following courses are required:
- GRD 717: Principles of Scientific Integrity
- GBS 716: Grantsmanship & Scientific Writing
You will also take three upper-level elective GBS courses (or other relevant and approved 700-level biomedical science or math courses), applicable to your research project.
Seminar Series
Beginning in your second year you must attend one of the weekly departmental-based seminar series that are within your scientific interest. You must also attend a biomedical science departmental weekly seminar of your choice. Our students also participate in the CMDB/GGB Theme joint seminar series. This once-a-month seminar features presentations from upper-level CMDB and GGB students about their research projects, and meets in the Fall and Spring semesters.
Journal Club
CMDB students are required to register for and participate in a journal club of their choice in the Fall and Spring semesters each academic year, from second year through graduation.
Qualifying Exam
You must pass your qualifying exams no later than the end of the Fall semester of your third year. Failure to complete the exam in this time may result in termination of your stipend. After successful completion of the exam, it is expected that your proposal will be submitted to a funding agency (if applicable) for possible extramural support. Please see the CMDB Theme Policy regarding QE.