PMB: Laboratory Rotations

The primary purpose of the research rotations is to identify a laboratory in which dissertation research will be carried out; rotations should therefore be performed in laboratories that are being considered as possible homes. At least two rotations must be completed in a primary PMB faculty laboratory. Additional rotations may be performed in other labs; the emphasis should be on developing tools, approaches, techniques that are appropriate for investigations in plant biology.  Rotations allow the student to find out what particular laboratories and faculty members are like, and give the faculty a chance to assess how well a particular student fits into the laboratory. Rotations also serve to introduce students to a variety of techniques and scientific approaches. Therefore, the three-rotation requirement will not be waived because a student has already made a final decision concerning a dissertation laboratory.  In rare instances, a student is able to do a short fourth rotation if necessary.

Two forms must be filled out by the advisor and discussed with the rotation student. The first is a Rotation Acknowledgement form that is filled out prior to the start of the rotation and is intended to help align the rotation goals and expectations of the advisor with the student. The second is a Rotation Evaluation Form which summarizes the rotation and helps determine if the lab will be willing to accept the student for dissertation research. Both should be submitted to the PMB registrar promptly after filling them out.

Students must register for the following three rotation courses and attend the corresponding set of rotation talks:

Rotation Talks

Students will give short talks to their fellow first-year students for each of the three laboratory rotations.