Trainee Handbook

The complete curriculum for the Pathology PhD degree is described on our Curriculum page.  In brief, students complete three research rotations plus required courses during their first year in the program.  At the start of their second year, students identify a research advisor under whose mentorship they will complete their thesis project.  Students take additional coursework, determined by their program track (i.e., Cell Biology of Disease, Cancer Biology, or Bioinformatics).  In their third year, each student will assemble a thesis advisory committee and complete their Qualifying Exam.  After qualifying, students conduct their research projects, present results at conferences, write manuscripts for publication and explore career opportunities.  Completion of doctoral study requires successful defense of a written dissertation through a final oral examination by their committee in accordance with the PhD Completion Process and the Dissertation Manual of the University Office for Graduate Education and Postdoctoral Affairs.

Academic Policies

1. We follow the Grading Policy for SMD Graduate Programs. Please see that policy for information on failing grades and the processes (including academic probation and dismissal) that take place due to failing grades.
2. We follow the University policy on Generative AI in the Dissertation, which can be found in the University’s Graduate Student Regulations and Policies document.
3. At the end of each research rotation, students and mentors must each complete an evaluation of the rotation and submit to the Pathology PhD program administrator by email.
4. After successful completion of three lab rotations, students designate a thesis advisor by submitting a signed copy of the Advisor Designation Form.  The thesis advisor need not be a member of the Pathology PhD Program-affiliated faculty but must provide a strong training and educational environment. If a student is not able to designate an advisor after three rotations, further rotations may be available.  Consult with the Program Director for further guidance.
5. Students who transfer into the Pathology PhD Program after the first year must complete required Pathology courses prior to their Qualifying Exam.
6. Students are required to submit an annual evaluation to document progress in their studies.  This form is completed following the second semi-annual committee meeting and submitted to the program administrator no later than June 30 of each academic year.
7. Students are eligible for program-specific awards, given each year, including Outstanding Oral Presentation and Outstanding Poster Presentation based on work presented at the annual Pathology Research Day symposium, the Leadership Award for student council service, and the Robert A. Mooney Award for Outstanding Dissertation.  No student may win any award more than once.

The Pathology PhD program adheres to all school and/or University-wide policies.  Complete listings are available for the School of Medicine and Dentistry as relates to PhD students, as well as University policy governing graduate study.  

Several specific policies are listed below:

1. University Policy Against Harassment and Discrimination
2. University Policy on Research Misconduct
3. University Policy on Emergency Closings
4. School of Medicine and Dentistry policies on Tuition, Fees, and Stipends
5. School of Medicine and Dentistry PhD Student Health Insurance Information
6. School of Medicine and Dentistry Family Friendly Policies for Graduate Students
7. School of Medicine and Dentistry Vacation and Holiday Policy for Graduate Students
8. International students who intend to travel outside the United States must submit a Short Term Absence Notice
9. Additional resources for international students are provided by the International Services Office

The Pathology PhD program adheres to the policies of the School of Medicine and Dentistry governing Qualifying Exams.  Students follow the timeline of required administrative steps to complete the Qualifying Exam.  Qualifying exams for the PhD in Pathology require a written research proposal, which candidates will defend during an oral examination by their advisory committee. 

More information can be found on the Curriculum page.

The Pathology PhD program adheres to the policies of the School of Medicine and Dentistry governing PhD thesis defense. Students follow the timeline of required administrative steps to complete the thesis defense. Dissertations for the PhD in Pathology must be written in the form set out by the University of Rochester and School of Medicine and Dentistry in the Basic Science Thesis Guide Supplement.