Behavioral & Functional Standards

Preparation for a career in the biomedical science profession involves much more than the acquisition of the requisite knowledge. Pre-doctoral trainees for the must also be able to apply and synthesize their knowledge with mentors, peers and colleagues, and be able to perform experiments and other requirements in a safe and controlled laboratory environment. The purpose of this document is to communicate to all prospective and current students the full range of capabilities needed to function effectively as a trainee meet all graduation requirements of the GEMS Biomedical Sciences PhD Program with the University of Illinois College of Medicine.  

The College of Medicine recognizes that an ideal training environment and workforce will embrace a range of individual differences in aptitudes and life experiences. Such diversity vitally enriches educational and laboratory settings and fosters an environment in which students are able to reach their highest academic potential.  

Functional and Behavioral Standards 

Acquiring Fundamental Knowledge  

Students must be able to learn through a variety of modalities, including, but not limited to classroom instruction; laboratory instruction; physical demonstrations, interactive team and collaborative activities; individual study; preparation and presentation of reports; and use of computer technologies.  

Developing Communication Skills  

Students must exhibit interpersonal skills that enable effective participation in both interactive didactic and bench research learning opportunities; this requires effective communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving abilities. These skills are essential for collaborating with peers and mentors, navigating complex research environments, and contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.

Interpreting Data  

Students must effectively interpret, assimilate, and understand the complex information required to function within the biomedical science curriculum, including, but not limited to, the ability to critically analyze scientific literature, apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, conduct rigorous experiments, and interpret experimental data accurately. Additionally, they must be proficient in utilizing advanced laboratory techniques, adhering to ethical standards, and staying current with emerging trends and technologies in the biomedical field

Developing Appropriate Professional Attitudes and Behaviors  

Students must complete in a timely fashion all responsibilities attendant to the standards required of a pre-doctoral trainee and develop mature, sensitive, respectful, and effective relationships with their peers, instructors, mentor, and UIC community at large. The skills required to do so include the ability to effectively manage heavy workloads, function effectively under stress, adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the laboratory environment. 

Students are expected to exhibit truthfulness and integrity, conscientiousness, tolerance, and respect. Among the interpersonal skills students are to demonstrate, they must exhibit the ability to accept and apply feedback and to respect boundaries for all individuals in a respectful and effective manner regardless of gender identity, age, race, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other protected status. Students should understand, and function within, the legal and ethical aspects of the University and maintain and display ethical and moral behaviors commensurate with the role of a pre-doctoral trainee in all interactions. Motivation and curiosity are vital to successful professional and personal development throughout the educational process.