PHD NEURO - Neuroscience (PhD)

PROGRAM COMPLETION REQUIREMENTS: The Doctor of Philosophy degree is a research degree and is not conferred solely as a result of formal course work, no matter how superior and extensive. To receive the doctoral degree, the candidate must demonstrate evidence of proficiency and distinctive attainment in a special field, and a recognized ability for independent investigation as presented in a dissertation based upon original research. Original, first-author peer-reviewed publications in recognized scientific journals is the cornerstone of success and is required for the dissertation.

QUALIFYING EXAMINATION AND ADMISSION TO CANDIDACY - The qualifying examination takes the form of writing an R21 style NIH grant and orally defending the proposed project. Subject matter for the grant is the student's response to any question available from a pool provided by the Program in Neuroscience faculty. The Qualifier Exam is given to graduate students in good academic standing upon completion of coursework (typically, end of second year) and must be successfully completed for admission to candidacy for the Doctor of Philosophy degree.

DISSERTATION - The dissertation must show originality of thought and demonstrate the results of independent investigation. It should contribute to the advancement of knowledge, exhibit mastery of the subject literature, and be written with an acceptable degree of literary skill. The dissertation, written according to prescribed form, is prepared under the direction of the candidate's advisor and must be approved by the candidate's Dissertation Advisory Committee and the Dean of the Graduate School. This approval must be obtained and all other requirements completed by the date given in the official academic calendar. Guidelines outlining the prescribed form for a student's written dissertation can be found on the SGSHS website (UMMC login required).

DISSERTATION DEFENSE - The dissertation defense is conducted by the candidate's Advisory Committee and consists of a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

REQUIRED COURSEWORK – In addition to the NSCI courses listed in the Plan of Study, all students must pass ID 709 (Responsible Conduct in Research) and ID 714 (Professional Skills).

PUBLICATION REQUIREMENT - Students receiving the PhD degree are required to have the results of their research accepted for publication prior to awarding of the degree. This manuscript must meet the publication requirement, i.e., the student must be listed as the sole first author on at least one publication in a national or international peer-reviewed journal.

PLAN OF STUDY