Table of Contents

• What to Expect
• Graduate Advisory Committee
• Journal Club
• Laboratory Rotations
• Seminar Program
• Choosing a Mentor
• Original Research
• Qualifying Examination
• Research Committee 

• Year 1
• Year 2
• Year 3 & Beyond

• Core Courses
• Electives

• Paved with Forms
• Prior to Dissertation Defense
• Dissertation Defense

• Post Dissertation Defense
• Thesis Printing

• Department of Biochemistry
  • Graduate Advisor:    Dr. Joel Hockensmith
  • Introduction
  • Biochem Degree Requirements
• Department of Cell Biology
  • Graduate Advisor:    Dr. David Castle
  • Introduction
  • Cell Degree Requirements
• Department of Microbiology
  • Graduate Advisor:    Dr. Amy Bouton
  • Introduction
  • Micro Degree Requirements
  • Micro Course Work
• Department of Neuroscience
  • Graduate Advisor:    Dr. Barry Condron
  • Introduction
  • Neuro Degree Requirements
  • Neuro Course Work
• Department of Pharmacology
  • Graduate Advisor:    Dr. Paula Barrett
  • Introduction
  • Pharm Degree Requirements
  • Pharm Course Work
• Department of Physiology
  • Graduate Advisor:    Dr. Avril Somlyo
  • Introduction
  • Phys Degree Requirements

• Introduction
• Fall & Spring Semesters – A two-step process
• Summer Session Registration
• ISIS Registration
• How to Use ISIS
• ISIS Functions

• Identification & Student ID
• Setting up an E-mail account
• Money Matters
• Health Insurance

• On-Grounds
• Off-Grounds
• Rental Agency Websites
• Housing Tips from the International Studies Office
• Leases and Rental Agreements

• Clubs, Societies and Sports
• Charlottesville Information

• UVa Listings

• Local Listings

The program in Biomedical Sciences is designed to provide our students with an initial
exposure to the world of biomedical research followed by specific training and a Ph.D. in
one of our degree departments, all in preparation for careers in modern biomedical research.  Our program begins with two years of didactic course work with a first year of rotation through three research laboratories.  By late April of the first year, the student is expected to choose a mentor and a department. During the second year of course work, the student works with the mentor and prepares for the departmental qualifying examination.  Throughout their course of study, students participate in monthly Research in Progress (RIP) dinners and may also participate in Journal Clubs as required by their department or training grant. 

Once students have a mentor and a degree department, they will follow the departmental
schedule for advancement to candidacy.  On the basis of performance in course work, research rotations, and the qualifying examination, the student is evaluated for advancement to candidacy. After passing their qualifying exams (advancement to candidacy), students concentrate on conducting independent research under the guidance of the mentor and research committee.  The culmination of the research endeavor is a written dissertation that is defended orally before a faculty committee. The training experience leads to the awarding of a Ph.D. in four to five years, granted by the department chosen by the student when the mentor was selected.

The Training Program, through the graduate mentor and department, guarantees financial
support for all MMSB students in good standing throughout their course of study.  This support includes payment of a stipend (or wage), remission of tuition and fees, and personal health insurance.  The student’s progress through the program is guided at all times by a committee of faculty advisors. Details of each aspect of the training experience are provided in this document, as are details of financial responsibilities of the Program and participating faculty.

Graduate Advisory Committee:

First year students are expected to meet on a regular basis with their MMSB Graduate
Advisory Committee, who will 1) be appointed upon entry into the program and 2) guide your progress throughout the training program.  The chair of the Advisory Committee will require that you frequently submit an updated student profile to be kept on file.

Journal Club:

First year students will participate in the summer Nature Medicine Journal Club.  Journal Club is an opportunity for all students in all years of the program to learn both how to critically evaluate an important paper and how to present a seminar. Papers are chosen for their relevance, quality of science, and novelty. Students are encouraged to seek out help from faculty members with which they have not yet had the opportunity to interact. Fellow students analyze presentations to provide feedback on how to improve future presentations.  Additional non-directed journal clubs (Cardiovascular, Cancer, Pharmaco-logy) are part of continuous training in later years.

Available Journal Clubs:

• Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB) journal club - BIMS 815 
  Todd Stukenberg organizer
  Tues 4:00 pm
  BMG library
  Research talks by students supported on CMB training grant
  
• Biophysics journal club - BIOP 805
  Michael Wiener organizer
  Fri 12:00 pm
  Physiology conference room
  Presentation by students of papers chosen by students
  
• Pharmacologyjournal club - PHAR 811
  Raghu Mirmira organizer
  Tues 12:00 pm
  Pharmacology conference room
  Disease of the Month - faculty mentored with 3-4student presentations per disease
  
• Immunology journal club - BIMS 835
  Vic Englehard
  Tues 12:00 noon
  Location TBA
  
• Microbiology journal club – MICR 881
  Ulrike Lorenz
  Tues 12:00 noon
  Microbiology conference room
  Broad based topics - faculty mentored/ student presentations
  
• Cell Current Topics journal club – CELL 595
  David Castle
  To be decided
  Topics selected to be complimentary to cell course – group presentations by students

Laboratory Rotations:

The rotation consists of an approximately 8 week period wherein the student temporarily joins the research laboratory of one of the mentors in the MMSB training program. Many of our mentors have provides information on their research and possible rotation experiences in this booklet.  Three rotations are normally performed before choosing a mentor. Students may petition the graduate committee to perform one of three rotations with a faculty member who is not a member of the training program faculty; however such faculty must be members of the Graduate Faculty of the University. The purpose of the rotation experience is to acquaint the student with a particular area of research, a particular laboratory setting and/or a potential mentor.

Students are required to submit a 1page description of each laboratory rotation to the Director of the graduate program for inclusion in their files. In cases where a student has extensive research experience (e.g., as a full time laboratory technician), s/he may petition the graduate committee to have this experience considered as a single laboratory rotation. Likewise, students may petition the graduate committee to perform an additional (fourth) rotation.

There are several ways to find out about Faculty research and techniques:

• Faculty Web pages:   (click on Faculty Mentors on the left menu)
• Student/Mentor Luncheons: In the Fall of your first semester a weekly luncheon is
  provided, during which you will meet members of the Training Program Faculty giving
  you an opportunity to hear a brief description about the research and techniques
  performed in their laboratories. 

You should contact Faculty via telephone or email to arrange for individual appointments to
discuss a possible lab rotation.

Seminar Program:

During the Fall and Spring Semesters, research scientists are brought in from Academia and Industry to give seminars on their research. It is expected that you will attend our seminars whenever they are offered. Selected groups of students will meet with each seminar speaker over lunch to discuss research.  This interaction is made more valuable when the attendees have familiarized themselves with the speaker’s research activities prior to the luncheon.

We trust that each student will benefit from our seminar series. It is our aim to introduce
students to different areas ofresearch and to make contact with researchers from around the globe.

Choosing a Mentor :

Dissertation research mentors are to be chosen from among the faculty participating in the
training program. Potential mentors are listed on the web site under their primary area of
research interest.

Mentor/student partnership is by mutual agreement and is subject to approval by the Program Director in consultation with the graduate committee. The student is expected to have decided on a mentor and been accepted into his/her laboratory by the end of the first year of study, or no later than April 20^th.   The mentor acts as chair of the student's research committee (see Research Committee) and provides the primary funding for the student’s continued study.

Original Research:

Students concentrate on executing an original research project under the guidance of their
preceptor and research committee.  The student’s research is expected to advance some field of biomedical sciences.  As evidence of this level of achievement, the Training Program expects that students will sign research papers, including some as first author, and these papers will appear in recognized, peer-reviewed journals.  Some departments may have additional suggestions or requirements.

Qualifying Examination:

After choosing a preceptor, students are required to take and pass the degree granting
department’s qualifying examination.  The student should check with the degree granting
department for more information on these requirements.

Research Committee:

On successfully Advancing to Candidacy, a research committee, chaired by the mentor, and consisting of 3-4 additional graduate faculty members is formed and guides the student in executing the research project.  Members of the research committee are selected in
consultation with the mentor and usually have expertise in a particular area of the student’s
dissertation research.  At least one member of each research committee will be a sitting
member of the Graduate Committee. The first meeting of the student with their research
committee should include a presentation by the student of his/her expected research project. Students are required to meet semi-annually (in December and June) with their committee throughout the course of their training. A committee report should be completed, signed and submitted to the Training Program Director after each meeting.

CORE COURSES
(a total of 4 courses in the first year)

Selection of 3 of the following 5 core courses:

• BIMS 503 Macromolecular Structure and Function (F)
• BIMS 811 Gene Structure and Function (F)
• BIMS 812 Cell Structure and Function (F)
• BIMS 832 Graduate Physiology (S)
• NESC 703 Neurobiology (F)

PLUS   (required)

• BIMS 710 Research Ethics (6 weeks) (Typically Year 1, Spring)
• 3 Lab Rotations (non course activitiy)

Your second year courses will be directed by departmental requirements since you will have selected a mentor and degree program at this point.  Departmental requirements are listed for your convenience in the next section.

ELECTIVE COURSES
Selection of 4 additional courses:

~  Either 2 core courses not taken previously and 2 electives or all 4 from following electives
~  ONE must be a disease-related course (***) No more than TWO of the additional FOUR can come from outside of these listings.

• BIOC 508    Computer analysis of DNA and Protein Sequences (S)
• BIOP 802   Macromolecular Structure Determination (S)
• BIOP 506   Experimental Approaches in Molecular Biophysics (F)
• BIOP 803   Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Macromolecules (S)
• BIMS 803   Fundamental Immunology (S)
• BIMS 824   Chromatin Structure and Function (S)
• BIMS 813    Pt 1 Molecular Basis of Human Disease (F) ***
• BIMS 814    Pt 2 Molecular Basis of Human Disease (S) ***
• BIMS 852   Vascular Biology (S) ***
• MICR 809   Virology (F)***
• MICR 810   Microbial Pathogenesis (F) ***
• MICR 815   Molecular Basis of Carcinogenesis (S) ***
• PHAR 901   Human Pharmacology/General Pharmacology (F) ***
• PHAR 902   Molecular Characterization of Drug Targets (S)
• PHYS 813   Structure and Function of Biological Membranes (F/S)
• PHYS 862   Neurophysiology

All courses must be completed spring of year 2

Fall and Spring Semesters:

• Non-topical research                12 credits

Summer Semesters:

• Non-topical research                 6 credits

Although, you do not formally register for Journal Club and the Department Colloquium courses, attendance is required.

Core Courses:

• BIMS 503 (4 credits) Fall
  Macromolecular Structure & Function

A survey of current knowledge and methods for understanding structure-function relationships in Biological molecules, particularly proteins.  It is not a general Biochemistry course; Bioch 503 focuses on aspects of protein structure and function that are fundamental to research in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Physiology, and Pharmacology.  The course complements similar research-focused courses in Molecular Biology and Cell Biology. Topics covered include: biochemistry of the aminoacids, protein secondary structure, protein evolution, tertiary structure and protein folding, kinetics, DNA-protein interactions, protein-protein interactions, protein modification, selected catalytic mechanisms, quaterary structure, and structure and function of large
macro-molecular complexes.

• BIMS 710 (1 credit)  Spring
  Research Ethics

Formal training in scientific integrity and ethical principles in research.

• BIMS 811 (5 credits)  Fall
  Gene Structure & Expression

This course is an in-depth look at the "central dogma" of molecular  biology:  DNA goes to RNA goes to protein.  The course starts with the properties of nucleotides and nucleic acids, and advances to the composition and structure of eukaryotic chromatin. Then the basic processes underlying eukaryotic gene expression are presented:  DNA replication, RNA transcription, RNA splicing and metabolism, and protein translation. The course ends with a survey of gene expression from the prokaryotic point of view.

The course is divided into seven sections by faculty representing the Departments of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Pharmacology.  This is an advanced graduate course with an emphasis on reading important papers from the primary literature along with presentation of basic concepts of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology.  The course meets three days a week for 90 minutes.           

• BIMS 812 (5 credits)  Fall
  Cell Structure & Function

A graduate course in molecular cell biology examining the functional organization of eukaryotic cells and the interactions of cells with their surroundings.  The coverage of the material begins with the general and rapidly advances to the specialized with emphasis on biological membranes, cell adhesion, the cytoskeleton, mitosis, the cell cycle and cell signaling.  The course utilizes a combination of textbook readings and original literature.

• BIMS 832 (5 credits)  Spring
  Graduate Physiology

Studies selected topics in cellular physiology, including the physiology of the human cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, renal, and endocrine systems. Emphasizes the cellular mechanisms involved in the functions of the various organ systems, the roles of the organ systems in homeostasis, and the control of the organ systems by neural and hormonal mechanisms. Lectures, discussions, and clinical correlations.

• NESC 703 - (5 credits)
  Neurobiology

Introduces cellular, molecular, and developmental neuroscience. Includes the cellular and molecular biology of neurons and glia, intercellular signaling in the nervous system, and neuronal development and plasticity. Lectures and directed readings of primary literature.

---

Electives:

• BIOC 508  (3 credits)  Spring
  Computer Analysis of DNA and Protein Sequences
  
• BIOP 506 (4 credits)  Fall
  Experimental Approaches in Molecular Physiology and Biophysics
  
• BIOP 802 (3 credits)   Spring
  Macromolecular Structure Determination

MSD treats the theory of X-ray scattering and focuses on the application of X-ray diffraction to macromolecular crystallography. Related topics (e.g., low angle scattering, electron diffraction, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, determinants of protein structure) provide a basis for interpretation of the crystallographic results. Cross-listed with PHY 810.

• BIOP 803  (3 credits) Spring
  Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Macromolecules

The course focuses on the application of NMR spectroscopy to protein structure determination. Topics include classical and quantum description of NMR, density matrix theory and relaxation mechanisms, multi-dimensional homo/heteronuclear NMR, pulse sequence design, structure calculation from NMR data, molecular dynamics calculations. Two additional lectures each are devoted to solid-state NMR and EPR.

• BIMS 803  
  Fundamental Immunology

Introduces cellular and molecular immunology, emphasizing antigen-specific immune responses. Topics include structure of antigens and antigen recognition structures, development of immunologically competent cells, cell-cell interactions and signaling, development and regulation of different immune responses, and the relationship of basic immunological mechanisms to the control of disease and immunopathology.  

• BIMS 813/814   (2 credits)
  Molecular Basis of Human Disease

Course Objective: The course will address the biologic/molecular mechanisms related to selected disease processes as they affect specific cell types, tissues, and/or organ systems.  The format consists of weekly meetings of 2 hours in duration and each topic will be covered in 2 sequential sessions with a combination of informal didactic presentations by the faculty and journal article discussions (3 pre-assigned papers maximum) by the students.  Didactic-style presentation(s) are aimed at providing sufficient background on the relevant pathobiology, histopathology, and/or clinical manifestations for the students to read and discuss the literature assignments.  A strong focus of the course will be the discussion of the basic pathobiologic processes and the contemporary biomedical translation of experimental science to the understanding and treatment of human diseases.

• BIMS 824  ( credits)  Spring
  Chromatin Structure and Function
  
• BIMS 852   (3 credits) Spring
  Vascular Biology

Prerequisite: One course in mammalian physiology and one in cell biology.
A broad interdisciplinary course considering the basis for vascular function from a physiological and pathophysiological perspective. Topics include basic microcirculatory function, smooth muscle and endothelial cell function and development, capillary exchange, inflammatory processes, leukocyte endothelial cell interactions, and the pathophysiology of atherogenesis. Topics such as vascular control, angiogenesis, and inflammatory responses of the cardiovascular system will be highlighted.

• MICR 809  (4 Credits)  Fall
  Virology
  
• MICR 810  (4 Credits)   Fall
  Molecular Pathogenesis

A comprehensive study of the morphology, taxonomy, biochemistry, molecular biology, physiology, and pathogenicity of bacteria and viruses. Five lecture hours.

• MICR 815  (4 Credits)  Spring
  Molecular Basis of Cancer

Advanced presentation of the mechanisms of oncogenesis, including discussions on phenotypes of tumor cells, regulation of cell cycle, oncogenes, anti-oncogenes, RNA and DNA tumor virus, tumor progression, and metastasis. Emphasizes mechanisms of proto- oncogene activation, subversion of normal growth control, and inactivation of tumor suppressors which occur in human tumors.

• PHAR 901 (4 credits)  Fall
  Human Pharmacology

Graduate Pharmacology course which provides a knowledge of systems-based drug intervention. Lectures emphasize the pharmacological properties of drug classes and their use in common human diseases. Discusses major issues associated with the use of these drugs and requires a familiarity with the assigned materials.

• PHAR 902  (4 credits)  Spring
  Molecular Characterization of Drug Targets

Studies the biochemical and molecular aspects of the transmembrane signaling mechanisms that are known targets for important classes of clinically useful drugs. Covers potential drug targets in diseases such as cancer. Emphasizes current knowledge of important signaling mechanisms and examples of the research leading to the design of important therapeutic agents. Focuses on how an important drug target can be identified and exploited

• PHY 813 - (3 credits)
  Structure and Function of Biological Membranes

A special topics course for graduates that is an in-depth assessment of the structure and function of biological membranes. Includes lectures as well as directed discussions of papers from the literature. Topics include membrane and membrane protein structure, lipid protein interactions, ion channels and their regulation, and active transport and ion driven molecular motors. Emphasizes biophysical approaches in these areas with the primary literature the main source of reading. Students present a final paper that is written in the format of a grant proposal as well as an oral presentation of the proposal.

• PHY 862  (4 Credits)   Fall
  Neurophysiology

Selected topics in neurophysiology, emphasizing synaptic organization of the brain: how neurons convert physical stimuli into the sensations they evoke and how movement is controlled through integrative neuronal action. Explores the mechanisms of learning and memory at the neuronal and molecular levels.

 

Paved with Forms:

In order to graduate there are several forms that need to be completed. The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences office in Cabell Hall will provide you with a packet of information and the necessary forms. The following web page provides important deadlines regarding graduation that you should be aware of:  

  http://www.virginia.edu/artsandsciences/grad/deadline.htm

Prior to Dissertation Defense:

Blue form:  (Application to Graduate included in packet from GSAS) is to be signed by your mentor, Graduate Program Administrator and the Chair of the Department. You should list all the graduate courses that you have completed toward your degree. It is important that the Graduate Program Administrator receives a copy of this form.

Dissertation Defense:

A written dissertation based on the student’s original research contribution is prepared, and
the document presented to the student’s dissertation committee. If the thesis is approved by the members of the committee, it forms the basis for an oral examination before that
committee.  An integral part of the student’s final exercise is the presentation of a public
seminar wherein the student’s work is summarized.  This seminar is to precede immediately the closed portion of the dissertation defense.

The constitution of the dissertation examination committee will follow the rules mandated by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. In addition, the thesis committee will include at least one member of the graduate committee.

Post Dissertation Defense:

Green form:  Certifies that you have passed your dissertation defense examination and that you have fulfilled the requirements for your degree and should be signed by the committee members after your dissertation defense and secondly by the Chair of the Department.  It should be submitted to the Graduate Office in Cabell Hall. It is important that the Graduate Administrator receives a copy of this form.

Thesis Printing:

For guidelines on the format of your thesis, please see the following web page:

http://www.virginia.edu/artsandsciences/grad/thesis.html

When your Thesis has been approved and signed take it over to 438 Cabell Hall (include a
photocopy of title page and abstract).  Go to Alderman Library to order your copies (You will need a PTAEO number – which you can get from your depatment office staff). Order 1 copy for your mentor, one for the department and one copy for yourself. Take your receipt to 438 Cabell Hall.

Department of Biochemistry
Graduate Advisor: Dr. Joel Hockensmith

Introduction:

Biochemistry has had a long-standing tradition of excellence in the studey of biomembranes and membrane proteins.  To reflect the increasing use of genetics, molecular biology, and computational biology in identifying and characterizing the structure and activities of important cell constituents, our faculty includes geneticists, biochemist, molecular biologists, and biophysicists, whose research focuses on computational biology, DNA replication, transcriptional regulation, chromatin folding, cell cycle traverse, genetic instability, nuclear import, structure of membranes and nucleoprotein complexes, extracellular matrix formation, protease function, and antibody selectivity and design.  Thus the department represents a broad range of research interests with special emphasis on biochemistry of the nucleus.

Biochem Degree Requirements:

The backgrounds of students admitted to the program are diverse, and the program attempts to educate all students up to a level of basic understanding in several areas deemed fundamental to modern biochemistry and molecular genetics.  In addition, it is hoped that students will become more expert in some one area related to their research, thus gaining a measure of confidence.  It is likely that most students would have had (or would make up remedially) calculus, physical chemistry, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, genetics, and several courses in biology.  They will then be required to satisfy the following departmental requirements:

Course                                                                          Semester Hours    

• BIMS 503 Macromolecular Structure and Function                          4
• BIMS 812 Cell Structure and Function                                            5
• BIMS 811 Gene Structure & Expression                                         5
• BIMS 710 Research Ethics                                                           1

Topical research courses and other graduate courses in 
appropriate fields such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry,
math, physics, etc., selected by the student with the advice
of the Central/Proposal/Research committees.                                         31

• Journal Club                                                                                 4
• Colloquium                                                                                   4

__________________________________________________________________________

Total  number of credits                                                                      54

The GSAS requirements for the Ph.D. degree are that students complete a minimum of 72
hours of graduate course work and at least 54 of these hours must be in courses other than non‑topical research.  Every effort should be made to see that these students complete the 54 hours of course work and topical research by the end of the second year, after which the student should register for non‑topical research only, thereby going on reduced tuition fees.  Even though these students will not be registered for Journal Club and Colloquium after their second year, attendance and participation in these Departmental functions will be expected.

Department of Cell Biology
Graduate Advisor:  Dr. David Castle

Introduction:

The Department of Cell Biology has developed great strengths and a strong national reputation in a number of research areas,including cell adhesion, cell migration, intracellular transport and trafficking, and reproductive cell biology. In addition to these research accomplishments the faculty continues achieving excellence in its medical school and graduate teaching missions. A new emphasis for research will be the problem of morphogenesis, involving a combination of cellular/molecular, genetic, and advanced imaging approaches todiscover the basic principles underlying tissue, organ, and organism development.

Cell Degree Requirements:

Department degree requirements for Cell and Molecular Biology students are modified somewhat to reflect the character of the training program. There are no foreign language
requirements for the doctoral degree in any affiliated department or program. Qualifying
examinations take the form of written examinations, oral research proposals, or both,
depending upon the particular department.

Fall Semester – 12 to 15 credits

• CELL 903 Research in Cell Biology (Topical Research) (1 - 12 credits)
• CELL 595 Current Topics/Journal Club (1 credit)

·         Choice of Colloquia (this list is not all inclusive):

Spring Semester – 12 to 15 credits

• CELL 903Topical Research (1 - 12 credits)
• CELL 595 Current Topics/Journal Club (1 credit)

Electives:

Summer Session

• CELL 999Non-Topical Research (6 credits)

• CELL 999Non-Topical Research (up to 12 credits)
• Finish required coursework as necessary

OPPORTUNITIES FOR TEACHING – CURRENT POLICY

There are no formal teaching requirements for the Ph.D. in Cell Biology. With respect to teaching, however, students may elect to do one or more of the following: 1) take one of the medical courses taught by the department (Cell and Tissue Structure or Human Gross Anatomy), 2) teach in part or all of the laboratories of one of these courses, and 3) present a lecture in one of these courses. In order to teach in the laboratories or give a lecture to the medical students, the Ph.D. student must have taken the medical course involved. In some cases, it may also be possible to arrange undergraduate teaching opportunities for interested students (e.g., with the Biology Department).

Every graduate student for the Ph.D. in Biology is required to complete a minimum of one full-time, semester-long Teaching Assistantship (TA) at some time during her/his graduate training. A student with previous teaching experience may petition the Graduate Committee for exemption from part or all of this requirement. Teaching assignments are made each semester by the Director of Graduate Studies and/or Graduate Committee.  Students interested in teaching should contact the CDB Program Administrator for more information.

Department of Microbiology
Graduate Advisor: Dr. Amy Bouton

Introduction:

The Department of Microbiology at the University of Virginia offers both pre-doctoral and postdoctoral training programs in a variety of subdisciplines.  This educational program is based on a solid foundation of state-of-the-art research conducted in the laboratories of the
departmental faculty.  Modern Microbiology involves studying biological systems at the
molecular level and is among the most rapidly developing areas in the sciences. The
Microbiology Department at the University of Virginia reflects this contemporary flavor.  The
research programs, which cover the areas of virology and human retroviruses, microbial
pathogenesis, cancer and signal transduction, gene expression and cell cycle regulation, and immunology, all have strong molecular components.

Like all BIMS programs, the first semester courses include molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell biology.  In subsequent semesters, a wide variety of courses are offered from which students, in consultation with their advisory committee, can choose.  These include virology, microbial pathogenesis, advanced genetics, cancer biology, and immunology, to name a few.  This gives students the opportunity to develop their own educational program that is driven by their personal interests and scientific curiosity.

Micro Degree Requirements:  

The Microbiology graduate program is oriented toward providing a dynamic training environment with the ultimate goal of awarding a PhD degree.  It typically requires four to six years of study. Independent research is at the core of the program.  During the first two years, students complete formal course requirements and rotate through three different laboratories.  Thesis labs are chosen after completion of the first year.  Toward the end of the second year, students prepare and defend a detailed research proposal in the form of a “qualifying exam.”  Successful completion of this process qualifies the student to advance to candidacy for the Ph.D. degree. Those not admitted to candidacy may, on approval of the faculty, be permitted to complete the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Biological and Physical Science.  The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is awarded upon recommendation by the faculty after satisfactory completion of original research, supported by submission and defense of a dissertation.

Micro Course Work: 

Typical student classroom and research activities are as follows:

Department of Neuroscience
Graduate Advisor:   Dr. Barry Condron

Introduction:

The functions of the nervous system in health and disease and their relationships to behavior are topics addressed in the Neuroscience Graduate Program at the University  of Virginia .  Each student in the program is encouraged to use the diverse resources of our neuroscience community to develop a truly individualized course of study.

Faculty areas of specialization include cellular and molecular neurobiology of vertebrates and invertebrates, nerve cell culture, neuroanatomy, neurophysiology, neuropharmacology,
behavioral neuroscience, neural and behavioral development and aging, and clinical neuro-
science research in epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, stroke, deafness and regeneration. 

The student's program should evolve through close consultation with one or more faculty
advisors and be tailored to meet the individual's needs and interests. Rotations through several research laboratories are encouraged, but not required.

Neuro Degree Requirements:

During the first year, the students enroll in a core group of graduate neuroscience courses that are designed to provide broad knowledge of the various subdisciplines of neuroscience,
exposure to the techniques used in neuroscience research, and familiarity with the research opportunities available in the program. In their second year, students can choose from a broad spectrum of more specialized, elective graduate courses.

The most important feature of the doctoral training program is the student's completion of an independent research project conducted under the supervision of a faculty advisor. This
research must constitute an original and significant contribution to the field and is to be
presented fully in the candidate's doctoral dissertation. The work must be of a quality suitable for publication in a recognized scientific journal. Students are encouraged to submit part or all of their research for publication as early as possible; most publish several papers while enrolled in the program.

Neuro Course Work:

Core course offerings are as follows:

• Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience
• Intro to Applied Statistics/Lab
• Research Ethics
• Cell Structure and Function
• Neurobiology
• Fundamentals of Neuroscience (Medical Neuroscience)
• Tutorial for Fundamentals of Neuroscience
• Weekly Neuroscience Seminarsand Seminar Preview 
• Student Seminar

Current Topics in Neuroscience, such as:

• Stem Cells and Neural Regeneration
• Synaptic Development & Plas
• Ion Channel Modulation 
• Neurobiology of Nociception
• Methuselah's Brain
• Channelopathies
• The Blue Collar Brain: Emerging View of Neuroendocrine
        circuits from Electrophysiology
• Motor Neuron Development
• Development and Regulation of the Neuromuscular Junction
• Gene knockout/down in neural cells

Possible Electives:

• Graduate Physiology
• Developmental Mechanisms
• Neurophysiology
• Gene Structure & Expression
• Biochemistry
• Psychobiology
• Directed Readings in Neuroscience

Department of Pharmacology
Graduate Advisor:  Dr. Paula Barrett

Introduction:

Traditionally, Pharmacology has been considered an applied science. However, with the
development of biological chemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, neuroscience,
and electrophysiology, Pharmacology has become a diverse science that probes basic
mechanisms of molecular and cellular function with the knowledge that unraveling these
mechanisms will lead to new therapeutic approaches to a variety of diseases. The Department of Pharmacology, therefore, has a unique role within the basic biomedical sciences, to conduct investigations into the fundamental principles of cell function and translate these findings to clinical applications.

Because novel approaches to drug development require a new and comprehensive under-
standing of cellular organization and communication, the mechanisms by which cells transmit signals within and among cells is an area of emphasis within the Department. The Department of Pharmacology at the University   of Virginia has a distinguished scientific history in the study of cellular signaling processes (signal transduction); two recent Nobel Laureates honored for their work deciphering pathways of cellular signaling conducted this work in the Pharmacology Department at the University of Virginia . Today, faculty of the Department of Pharmacology bring to bear a wide range of scientific approaches and technical methods to address fundamental questions of cellular signaling related to neural transmission, hormone and growth factor signaling, cell cycle regulation, neoplasia and regulation of gene expression.

This theme unites faculty whose research focus on: receptor characterization, regulation of
protein kinase and phosphatase cascades, proteonomics, ion channel regulation, structural
analysis of DNA binding proteins, translational control of protein synthesis, extracellular matrix signaling, gene expression, and mathematical modeling of hormone release.

Pharm Degree Requirements:

The Ph.D. program in Pharmacology is designed to provide our students with training in
Pharmacologic Sciences and thus prepare them for careers in modern biomedical research. Our program begins with 2 years of didactic course work. During this time students also rotate through two or three research laboratories. In the second year of study, the student chooses a mentor, completes course work and prepares for the qualifying examination. On the basis of performance in course work, research rotations and the qualifying examination, the student is evaluated for advancement to candidacy. After advancing to candidacy, students are awarded the M.S. degree in Biological and Physical Science and then concentrate on conducting independent research under the guidance of their mentor and research committee. The culmination of the research endeavor is a written dissertation that is defended orally before a faculty committee.

Throughout their course of study, students participate in the weekly journal club and
Pharmacology Department colloquium. The training experience leads to the awarding of a
Ph.D. in Pharmacology in four to five years. The Training Program guarantees financial support for all Pharmacology Ph.D. students in good standing throughout their course of study. This support includes payment of a stipend, remission of tuition and fees and health insurance.  Students' progress through the program is guided at all times by a committee of faculty advisors and is reviewed annually by the entire training program faculty.

Pharm Course Work:

All students must take a Journal Club and Department Colloquium throughout their career
in the department.

Department of Physiology
Graduate Advisor:  Dr. Avril Somlyo

Introduction:

An interdisciplinary approach employing advanced methods of Molecular Biology and Structural Biophysics is the hallmark of modern scientific research, whether fundamental, clinical or translational. The process involves obtaining information about the structure and function of cells at the molecular and even atomic level, and integrating it for understanding the function of the entire organism. The Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics aims to promote, at all levels, the understanding of the function of living systems. Today this understanding has to be based on knowledge of atomic and molecular structure and function, just as the classical physiology of Harvey and his successors was based on the structural studies of Vesalius and his fellow anatomists. Thus, modern molecular physiologists and biophysicists may investigate the function of the heart by cloning a membrane channel or transport protein, expressing it and studying its kinetics through patch clamping in a model cell system, while exploring the relationship between molecular structure and function through crystallography and spectroscopy of the protein.

The major aims, as of all science, are to understand the general laws of nature and, for
physiology, how they operate in living systems. The ultimate aim is to exploit this knowledge for the betterment of human health. Our research-intensive program at the University of Virginia is designed to train students to identify significant biological problems and use the most advanced and modern methods for solving them. The emphasis of our department and expertise in molecular physiology and biophysics provide a unique environment for training graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. This interdisciplinary approach also integrates the insights gained at the molecular and cellular levels into the broader framework of organ function, with the aim of understanding the function of living systems at all levels.

Phys Degree Requirements:

All students spend the first year acquiring a broad background in Physiology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology and related disciplines and rotate through laboratories of their choice.  Students are also encouraged to take a laboratory rotation during the summer prior to the first semester of study.  Towards the end of the first year, students identify a mentor, begin to focus on their specific area and take specialized courses in their areas of interest and after passing a preliminary examination begin an independent research project.  Upon completion of all requirements, the Ph.D. degree is awarded in Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics to those students who have selected mentors whose primary appointment is the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics. 

Advanced courses may be selected in a wide variety of disciplines, including Physiology,
Biophysics, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Physical Chemistry, Physics,
Mathematics, Pharmacology and Bioengineering.  Students and faculty participate in regularly scheduled departmental research seminars presented by distinguished visiting scientists and participate in all of the specialized activities organized by their graduate group of choice, for example Molecular Medicine and Systems Biology or Structural and Computational Biology and Biophysics, etc.  The collegiality that characterizes the University of Virginia is a special strength of our training programs, lending them a strong interdisciplinary character and close working relationships between students and research advisors.  We want our students to receive the training, sense of purpose and enthusiasm that will carry them throughout their careers. 

Fall & Spring Semesters – A two-step process:

Pre-Registration

After you have received access to the course enrollment functions, connect to ISIS at
296-4747 or www.virginia.edu/isis.  You will have access to the add, drop, and change
functions during regular ISIS hours until the first day of final registration, after which date
access to the course enrollment functions is restricted to those students who have completed final registration. The MMSB Program Administrator will notify you of the add/drop deadlines.

Final Registration

You must access ISIS to activate the final registration function and verify your status as a
student  (although you can continue to add and drop courses through your school's deadlines). From the first ISIS telephone menu, select "1" for Course Enrollment and then "4" for Final Registration; on-line, click on "Final Registration". If you fail to complete final registration you will be dropped from all courses and your I.D. card will be deactivated.

Summer Session Registration:

Regular Registration

Anytime between May 1 and the first day of class, you may pick up registration materials (a payment delay form and the add/drop course sheet) from the MMSB Program Administrator. After you have filled out the registration forms, complete registration by taking these forms to the  Summer Session Office, located in the basement of Garrett Hall.

ISIS  Registration:

ISIS, the Integrated Student Information System,is the computer program that allows students to pre-register and complete final registration for both Fall and Spring semesters, to change their address in the system, and make sure that there is not a block on their registration.  It is very important that you learn to use this resource to enroll in courses and complete Final Registration.  Please let the Program Administrator know if you are having any difficulties before a problem occurs at registration. 

How to Use ISIS :

ISIS is available Monday through Friday from 7:00 A.M. to 9:30 P.M. ; Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. All functions are available year-round, except for the course enrollment (add/drop/change) and final registration functions, access to which is restricted to certain times of the year.

To use ISIS , dial 434/296-ISIS (296-4747) or connect to www.virginia.edu/isis. You will enter your nine-digit student I.D. (Social Security) number and your four-digit personal identification number (PIN). The first time you use ISIS , your PIN will be the month and day of your birth (for example, if you were born on April 13, your PIN is "0413"). To protect the security of your records, you are required to change your PIN to any other four-digit number the first time you use ISIS . Should you forget your PIN, go to the Office of the University Registrar or call the ISIS HelpLine at 434/924-4135 for  assistance.

Students who did not provide a Social Security number at the time of application are assigned a number by the Office of the University Registrar.

ISIS Functions:

• Course enrollment for Regular Session (fall or spring)
• Add or Drop
• Change (grading option, credit hours, instructor number)
• Course status: to check if there is room in a course (on line, please check the course
  offerings)
• Class listings
• Class list (courses in which you are enrolled)
• Class schedule (where your courses meet)
• Final registration: during a ten-day period at the start of each semester, you must verify
  your status as a student for the semester (see the Academic Calendar for final registration
  dates each semester).
• Grade: for any semester
• Change your address
• Change PIN
• Review registration

Please remember to update your address and phone number whenever there is a change. 
You should also notify your Program Administrator so that s/he can change your file
information.

Please be sure to ask your Program Administrator for assistance in using ISIS or for any
other problems that may arise.

Identification & Student ID:

In order to use the library, fitness facilities, attend sporting events, and enter the Medical
School Complex, you will need identification.  There are two forms of this:

• Health System Identification Badge. The Program Administrator will sign your
  completed identification request form and take you to the Identification office in the
  Old Hospital .  Please be sure to bring along a photo I.D. such as a driver’s license,
  passport, etc., to get your UVa Identification Badge.
• UVa Student ID – this is the ID that gets you into sporting events and other University
  facilities. You can obtain your Student ID card at the University ID Office located in
  Observatory Hill Dining Hall, Monday through Friday, 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.
  Tel: 434-924-4508

Setting up an E-mail account:

You should receive an information package from the department of Information Technology
and Communication containing your UVa Computing ID/email address. You will need to activate your email account as soon as possible since most Program communication and notification of events will occur via e-mail.

Money Matters:

All MMSB Graduate Students in good standing are supported financially. There are multiple
sources of funds used for support of students. Thus, during your career you may be paid via a stipend or wage.  The difference between the stipend and wage are as follows:

In the event that you do not receive a deposit, please inform the Program Administrator
immediately.

Health Insurance:

Each student will be provided Health Insurance reimbursement up to a maximum allowed per year (for 2004-05 it’s $1600.00) each year while in the program. Each year a committee sets the maximum reimbursement amount. The University has contracted with The Chickering Group for student health insurance (http://www.chickering.com) this year.  However, if you wish to use another insurance company we can reimburse you up to the allowable amount.

Health Insurance Subsidy: We have provided The Chickering Group with a listing of students receiving a Health Insurance Subsidy. The Chickering Group will send enrollment packages to students. Enrollment applications should be completed and mailed promptly. Send payment with your application for enrollment if you select a plan other than Student Medical Only.  The Chickering Group will invoice the University for the Student Medical Only plan.

If you select the dental plan, or coverage other than Student Medical Only you will need to
provide remittance for the additional cost of the Plan (for 2004 $219) with your application for enrollment. Do not send the amount for the Student Medical Only plan. Remember, we will provide funds for health insurance.

Reimbursement: In order to be reimbursed, students have to show proof of payment, usually a cancelled check, copy of cashiers check, credit card receipt or statement. The Chickering Group will issue receipts once your method of payment has cleared; this usually takes about one week. Take the proof of payment to your Program Administrator for processing. Your reimbursement will be directly deposited into your bank account within one to two weeks.

Other Insurance Plans: Should you wish to enroll in a health insurance plan other than The Chickering Group, you would pay the cost of your selected plan in advance. When you receive your proof of payment, your Program Administrator will begin the process for reimbursement up to the allowable amount. Once the paperwork is completed, your reimbursement will be directly deposited into your bank account within one to two weeks.

On-Grounds:

University Housing: dormitories, apartments, married student housing, faculty housing.

University Housing:  Open Monday-Friday 8am-5pm     http://www.virginia.edu/housing/

Telephone:        434-924-6873
Facsimile:         434-924-3758
E-mail:              housing@virginia.edu

Off-Grounds:

Non-University Housing "Off-Grounds": privately owned homes, duplexes, small apartments in private homes, large apartment complexes. Prices vary. Some apartments can be rented with furniture at an additional charge.

Contact the other students in the program, many apartments are found by word of mouth.  
You can also consult the classified section of the local Charlottesville and UVA newspapers:

The Cavalier Daily: http://www.cavalierdaily.com
The Daily Progress: http://www.dailyprogress.com
The Charlottesville Observer

Rental Agency Websites:

Blue Ridge Apartment Council:    http://www.brac.com
CBS Rentals:    http://www.cbsrentals.com/index.html
Management Services Corporation:     http://www.msc-rents.com
Woodard Properties:   http://www.woodardprop.com
Sterling University Housing:    http://www.sterlinghousing.com

Housing Tips from the International Studies Office:

Before making any verbal commitment or signing any agreement, ask questions. Never be
afraid to ask questions concerning housing, details about the lease, and all related information that is not clear to you.

Before renting a room or apartment, it is useful to ask:

• What are the terms of the Lease?
• Is the Apartment furnished? IF NOT, consult "Furniture-Renting and Leasing" and
  "Furniture-Used" in the YELLOW PAGES of the phone book, and "UVA-Want-Ads"
  on the Internet.
• Is there a damage or security deposit? How much is it? When will it be refunded?
  What is the interest rate on the deposit?
• When is the rent due?
• What are the cooking facilities?
• What utilities (such as electricity, gas, telephone) are included in the rent?
• What are the average monthly utility costs not covered in the rent? (Sometimes utility
  companies will keep records of the highest and lowest bills for the house or apartment).
• What are the restrictions on children or pets?
• Is the area safe at night, especially for walking?
• Is parking available? Where is the nearest UVA or City bus line?
• Is it possible to sublet?
• Are there any special rules or regulations set up by the landlord?
• ASK to see the house or apartment first before agreeing to rent.
• Make a list of damages & needed repairs:
• Inspect the premises carefully and make a list of all damages and needed repairs. Have the landlord sign the list before you sign the lease, and ask the landlord to attend to needed adjustments and repairs before moving in.
• Also make a list of all permanent damages to the appliances, walls, windows, etc., and have the landlord sign it before moving in, so that you will not be responsible for paying for damages, which you did not cause.

Leases and Rental Agreements:

A Lease is a legal document, an agreement between the tenant and the landlord specifying
the obligations of each. A lease is designed to protect both the tenant and the landlord. Before signing a lease, be sure that you have inspected the premises and that you understand all terms of the lease.

If you have trouble understanding a lease, before or after you sign it, call:

Student Legal Services     http://www.student.virginia.edu/%7Estud-leg/
Monday-Friday 9 to 5
204 University Way
434-924-7524

Clubs, Societies and Sports:

• International Center at the University of Virginia
  http://www.virginia.edu/~intcent/intlctr.html
  
  
• Links to diverse student organizations
  http://www.virginia.edu/eop/2student_organizations.htm
  
  
• Graduate Biosciences Society:
  The Graduate Biosciences Society is a great place to meet other students in the
  Biosciences. There are approximately 300 members “promoting social and scientific
  interaction”.
  
  
• Office of African-American Affairs:
  The Office of African-American Affairs is an excellent resource offering support and
  guidance to individuals. They aim to provide programs and activities throughout the
  year, which are reflective of African-American culture. The following website provides
  links to organizations and events: http://www.virginia.edu/~oaaa/home.html
  
  
• Sports & Athletic Events:
  Intramural-Recreational Sports offer a wide variety of sporting facilities and activities.
  Throughout your 1^st and 2^nd years you can attend all athletic events and use the gym facilities at no charge. 3^rd year onwards you still have access to all gym facilities at no cost. However, there is a nominal fee each semester for access to all athletic events.  http://www.virginia.edu/ims/home.html

Charlottesville  Information:

Everything you ever wanted to know about your new town is available on the UVa Website at: http://www.virginia.edu/gradstudents.html.  Especially recommended is the Graduate Student Resource Guide at:  http://www.virginia.edu/virginia/gradguide/index.html.

• Bursar - Student Financial Services          
  Carruthers Hall                                                                              434-982-4242
  Email: studentaccounts@virginia.edu
  
  
• Enrolled Students Graduate School of Arts & Sciences (GSAS)        
  Doris Lamb (dmg2u)                                                                      434-924-6741
  Cabell Hall Room 438
  
  
• Graduate Biosciences Society                                                        434-982-2181
  http://hsc.virginia.edu/ed-programs/gpo/gbs/home.html
  
  
• International Studies Office (Foreign Students)
  Richard Tanson   (rt5g)                                                                   434-982-3017
  Minor Hall Room 207
  
  
• ISIS – Used for registering for classes
  Phone Final Registration