There are approximately 100 trainees in the central department, contributing significantly to the department’s research activities. Although the core of the training program is the individual research project, which is carried out under the guidance of a faculty mentor, the department provides additional activities and resources to further enrich the education and experiences of our trainees. Below are some of the activities and resources available to Pathology graduate students and postdocs.

One of the most successful activities is the Pathology Weekly Data Presentations, which provides an opportunity for postdoctoral fellows to present their work. Here postdocs and graduate students present in front of their fellow postdocs, graduate students, as well as faculty members, who provide valuable input on their work. Furthermore, it allows them to gain more experience in giving research presentations both within Department and at national meetings. The Weekly Data Presentations occur every Friday afternoon followed by a social hour that includes pizza, snacks and drinks.

Trainees also participate in the invitation of guest speakers for the Departmental Seminar Series. They are also invited to attend luncheons with the guest speakers prior to the seminar.

In 2005, the department established the Pathology Trainee Committee to address the needs of the graduate students and post-doctoral fellows in the department. This committee is charged with identifying ways to create a sense of community for students and fellows, and to increase interactions between trainees and the faculty. The committee consists of post-doctoral fellows and graduate students as well as advisory faculty members and an administration representative. Some of the initiatives brought forth by the committee include the creation of a department newsletter, fundraising, and department social events.