Graduate Professional Development Course - BCH2201H

The Department of Biochemistry’s course on graduate professional development provides student with the outside-the-laboratory tools needed to succeed in the competitive market for academic and nonacademic biomedical careers. Students are given opportunities to strengthen their communication skills, network face-to-face with expert professionals outside the academic environment, and discuss their individual career plans.

Interactive lectures will include expert lecturers and classroom discussions regarding the practical aspects of succeeding in graduate school, PI relationships and mentoring, enhancing research ability skills, problem-solving techniques, leadership, finding successful collaborations, research ethics, developing strong written and oral communication skills, further training as a postdoctoral fellow, effective networking, integrating family commitments, career transitions, cvs and resumés, career options in and out of academia, best methods of searching for and landing the job, staff management, global scientific issues, clinical applications, social implications, and maintaining career development.

Classes include interactive assignments and interactive panel discussions with guest speakers from various industries and careers such as those from Academia, Law, Research Ethics, Management Consulting, Science Writing, Industry, MaRs Innovation, Government, and Education. Informative networking opportunities via phone or webcam with professionals all over the world are also provided in alignment with students' specific interests. Individual career plans are followed up each year by the Director. 

The Graduate Development Program at the University of Toronto’s Biochemistry Department enhances the excellent research experience with supplemental life-long skills to facilitate a successful transition not just from student life to first profession, but throughout their career, from entry, mid, advanced and retirement years, through parenthood, aging parents, and passions outside the bench. We discuss how students can pursue their scientific curiosities, ask the global questions to help the world, be bold enough to pursue leadership positions, communicate to innovate. PhDs are not just scientists, but are leaders and innovative thinkers. Graduates from the GPD Program are provided with the tools and training to lead and help create the Canadian and international biomedical future. GPD is not just a course, it is an essential supplement throughout the graduate experience and beyond.

This module is only available for PhD students

Recommended Reading and Additional Resources:
Success in Graduate School and Beyond by Drs. Nana Lee and Reinhart Reithmeier, 2024. 
Success After Graduate School by Drs. Nana Lee and Reinhart Reithmeier, 2016. 
GPD Course Videos
GPD Student Testimonials
Careers After GPD
Graduate Professional Development Resources

Method of Student Evaluation:
Job Application (25%)
Individual Development Plan (IDP) & Book Reflection (25%)
Oral Presentation (3MT) (12.5%)
Informational Interview (12.5%)
Participation (25%)

Course Coordinator:
Nana Hyung Ran Lee

Course Instructor:
Reinhart Reithmeier

Enrollment Limit:
20