PhD Life Cycle for Basic Science Students

Andrew Alamban, PhD student

"My fellow students are inquisitive, driven, and hard working. With the breadth of skills within my graduate program, I'm never lacking in inspiration. Students are also passionate about topics outside their research, which further broadens my own perspectives."

Andrew Alamban, PhD student, Biophysics


This resource has been developed for those who advise graduate students, as well as for graduate students to use independently. The Life Cycle has truly been a labor of love, led by the Graduate Student Affairs Team under the leadership of Dr. D’Anne Duncan, with thoughtful input and feedback from multiple units, including Career and Professional Development, graduate programs, and the Academic Affairs team.

How Students Can Use This Resource

  • Coordinate timing, scheduling, and effort while recognizing that each student’s path is unique and may extend beyond or conclude within five years.
  • Use it as a reference tool when meeting with faculty and staff who advise you.
  • Plan for the current academic year while also gaining foresight into upcoming milestones and expectations.

How Faculty and Staff Advisers Can Use This Resource

  • Disseminate and share it broadly with students.
  • Clarify upcoming and key milestones in a student’s academic journey.
  • Support students in establishing and refining academic and professional goals.