Graduate Program Learning Objectives

By the end of the program, our graduates will be able to:

Demonstrate Foundational Knowledge and Disciplinary Humility
  • Read, critically evaluate sources, and synthesize primary literature in their research discipline.
  • Effectively articulate, discuss, and synthesize concepts relevant to the subfield and doctoral research while also identifying current key knowledge gaps and the future direction of the field.
  • Adapt to new developments in the field by acquiring new knowledge and technical skills.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the integrative nature of biological research by applying, synthesizing and integrating concepts and approaches from multiple biological subfields (e.g., genetics, ecology, physiology, evolution) to address specific biological problems and situate research within broader scientific contexts.
Conceptualize Research, Develop Hypotheses, and Design Experiments
  • Formulate and refine research questions and testable hypotheses based on theory, empirical research, and/or identified knowledge gaps.
  • Conduct research conceptualization and planning, including creating conceptual models, logistics, data collection, and experimental procedures.
  • Design and conduct observational and experimental studies, ensuring attention to replication, statistical design, and methodological rigor.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of how to write research proposals by effectively articulating research objectives, significance, impact, and feasibility to various funding agencies.
Apply Quantitative Reasoning and Literacy
  • Develop and apply mathematical, statistical, or computational models to analyze biological systems.
  • Create, apply, implement, and/or integrate quantitative models to represent biological processes and systems.
  • Interpret data, identify patterns, and draw meaningful conclusions in the context of biological research.
  • Apply programming tools for biological data analysis.
Think Critically and Analyze Results
  • Develop and critique scientific hypotheses based on empirical findings.
  • Critically analyze methodologies, statistical approaches, and conclusions in primary literature research.
  • Provide constructive peer review by identifying areas for improvement in study design, analysis, and interpretation.
Communicate Scientific Information and Engage with the Scientific Community
  • Communicate scientific results effectively in writing (manuscripts, reports, posters) and orally (seminars, presentations) to both academic and general audiences.
  • Develop skills in visualization and data presentation for publications, presentations, and outreach.
  • Actively participate in departmental committees, student organizations, or university initiatives that contribute to academic and professional growth.
  • Prepare original drafts of scientific publications and refine them through revision and peer feedback.
Practice Research Ethics and Integrity
  • Demonstrate an understanding of ethical considerations in biological research, including responsible data collection, authorship, and research integrity.
  • Ensure integrity, transparency, and reproducibility in research by applying best practices in data sharing, code availability and open science.
  • Apply ethical considerations to mentorship, authorship, and research collaborations.
Advance Their Careers
  • Prepare comprehensive and compelling application packages for jobs, fellowships, grants, or awards at appropriate levels. This may include assembling a well-structured CV, and tailoring application materials to align with review criteria.
  • Develop skills critical for advancing one's career tailored to their aspirations, which may include budgeting, proposal structuring, responding to reviewer feedback, and job interviewing skills.
Teach and Mentor Others
  • Develop leadership and mentorship skills, including oversight of research activities and mentoring team members or external collaborators.
  • Guide students and peers in study design, data analysis, and interpretation of results.
  • Design and deliver instructional materials in general biology and subfield-specific topics through teaching assistantships, guest lectures, or mentoring undergraduate students.
  • Demonstrate an ability to acquire and teach new knowledge and technical skills as the field evolves.
Collaborate and Demonstrate Collegiality
  • Work effectively in research teams, demonstrating responsibility, reliability, and respect for colleagues.
  • Exchange constructive feedback to strengthen collective scholarship by engaging in meaningful discussions with peers and experts on research and scholarly work, study design, analysis, and interpretation.
  • Engage in department seminars by attending, participating in discussions, and interacting with invited speakers.
  • Join and engage with professional organizations relevant to the academic discipline, attending conferences, workshops, and networking events.