Program Refreshment Strategies
In order to maintain the vitality and success of the program, there is a regular rotation of program directors. The current directors, Timothy Jarome, an associate professor specializing in animal sciences, and Shihoko Kojima, an associate professor in biological sciences, have introduced some innovative changes.
Jarome explained, “We have revamped our interview process. Feedback plays a pivotal role in our program. As the student demographics evolve and their interests shift, it becomes imperative for us to adapt, hence the periodic rotation of directors.”
One significant change proposed by the new leadership is to increase the cohort size from seven to ten students. While the program already encompasses multiple departments, Jarome and Kojima are optimistic about the potential collaboration with other departments.
Kojima elaborated, “Despite the apparent differences in research focus, we share common methodologies and languages across disciplines. Whether studying the brain or muscles, there are underlying synergies that can be leveraged.”
The directors are intentional about fostering a tight-knit community among the students by organizing monthly social gatherings, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, and arranging annual retreats. This emphasis on community not only benefits the students but also enriches the experience for the faculty members involved.
Jarome emphasized, “MCB thrives on interdisciplinary interactions, facilitating collaborations with virology experts on campus that I wouldn’t have explored otherwise. The program’s strength lies in bridging seemingly disparate fields that are, in reality, interconnected.”
Program Overview
The Molecular and Cellular Biology Program comprises 62 faculty members representing seven departments across four colleges:
- Animal Science
- Biochemistry
- Biological Sciences
- Human Nutrition, Food, and Exercise Science
- Neuroscience
- Entomology
Currently, the program accommodates 21 students, with seven new students admitted annually from diverse geographical backgrounds.
During the initial semester, students rotate through three labs of their choice, spending six weeks in each lab. Upon selecting a lab, students transition into the respective department and are formally enrolled in the Ph.D. program associated with that department, thereby becoming integral members of the MCB program.
Students have the option to pursue research projects in one of the following broad categories:
- Cell Signaling and Cancer
- Inflammation and Immunity
- Microbiology and Virology
- Neurobiology
For further details about the program, please visit the official website.