Degrees

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and Master of Science (MSc) degrees in Medical Genetics, Genetics, Experimental Medicine, or Interdisciplinary Oncology can be pursued within the Terry Fox Laboratory through the University of British Columbia.

Each student's graduate program and course selection is decided upon by the student and the supervisor together with the student's advisory committee. Individual research programs typically encompass multiple aspects of cell biology, biochemistry, immunology and/or molecular genetics.

Formal course work is usually completed during the first year of study, followed by a comprehensive examination in the specific discipline being pursued. Students can then devote their full attention to research.

Students with a first class honours (or equivalent) BSc degree may register directly in a Doctoral program. Students registering in a Masters program are encouraged to transfer directly into a Doctoral program after one year if their course work is of sufficient standard. Individuals with an MD may also pursue MSc or PhD degrees within the Terry Fox Laboratory. Those who wish to undertake a combined MD/PhD program can also be accommodated.

Scientific Interactions

Attendance and participation in seminars and scientific meetings are an integral part of the student's training program. Mastery in oral presentation and a broad experience in modern molecular and cellular techniques are major benefits of training in a large interdisciplinary setting. To facilitate this, students and postdoctoral fellows present their research once a year in a weekly Work-in-Progress seminar within the Terry Fox Laboratory, and in a seminar series involving all units within the B.C. Cancer Research Centre.

In addition, a University seminar course is part of the academic requirements of most graduate programs.

Students also play an active role in various small journal clubs and group meetings. Opportunities exist to attend many seminars by outstanding scientific visitors to Vancouver, including a weekly seminar series on cancer-related basic and clinical research topics.

More advanced students are also encouraged to attend and expected to present their own findings at international scientific meetings for which financial support is available.