First-year students rotate in three laboratories, four weeks per lab, during the first semester. Direct Admit students do not participate in laboratory rotations. See the Direct Admit section of the CMB Handbook.

A. Lab Rotations Provide:

• An introduction to cellular and molecular biology research and techniques

• Exposure to the actual working environment of a laboratory

• “Hands-on” research experience

• An opportunity to gain exposure to the variety of cellular and molecular biology research being conducted on the UW campus

• A chance to meet various students and faculty
  

B. Determine Lab Rotations

• Attend faculty talks during Welcome Week

• Each faculty member will discuss research being conducted in his/her lab

During and After the Talks:

• Review each professor’s lab profile (available online through the CMB Directory)

• Note questions to ask each professor

• Identify professors of interest for a possible fall lab rotation or future thesis committee members

• Arrange a time to meet with each professor of interest to discuss questions and obtain more information about their lab

• Students are advised to meet with at least six professors before deciding on three rotations

• See the Rotation Guidelines available at the Forms section of the CMB website

C. Finalize Three Lab Rotations

• Complete the Rotation Schedule available at the Forms section of the CMB website

• Return it to the CMB Office by September 4

D. Lab Rotation Schedule: Fall 2009

• Lab Rotation 1: September 8-October 2

• Lab Rotation 2: October 5-October 30

• Lab Rotation 3: November 2-December 4

E. Choice of Final Thesis Lab

• The student’s Thesis Lab will be finalized during the week after the third lab rotation: December 7-11

• Complete the Choice of Thesis Lab Form, available at the Forms section of the CMB website, and return it to the CMB Office by Friday, December 11

• After the thesis lab is chosen, the studen will begin working in their new lab starting on Monday, December 14.

• If a student is unable to determine an appropriate lab, the student must contact their Orientation Advisor, Gary Lyons (Advising & Orientation Chair) and the CMB Office

F. Lab Rotation Concerns

• If the student experiences difficulties with any rotation, the student should contact their Orientation Advisor, Gary Lyons (Advising & Orientation Chair), and the CMB Office