Year 1:

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• Fall and Spring: Complete comprehensive year-long neuroscience core coursework
• Conduct 3 lab rotations averaging 10  weeks each
• Begin thesis research by mid-spring semester
• Participate in weekly PFN journal clubs and research-in-progress seminars
• Engage in departmental activities and seminars

Year 2:

• Fall: Complete any remaining coursework and continue thesis research
• Spring: Prepare for and complete qualifying exam (proposal and oral defense)
• Continue participation in weekly PFN activities and departmental seminars

Years 3-5:

• Focus on dissertation research
• Regular meetings with thesis committee
• Prepare and submit manuscripts for publication
• Complete and defend dissertation
• Ongoing participation in PFN and departmental activities

Throughout the program:

• Attend and present at weekly PFN journal clubs and research-in-progress seminars
• Participate in departmental activities and seminars
• Engage in professional development courses and workshops
• Take additional courses in integrative biology to broaden scientific perspective
• Take advantage of other UVA programs, including PhD+ which hosts frequent workshops and events focused on career design, networking, and career development after the PhD