Veterinary Investigator in Scientific Training and Advancement (VISTA)

The Division of Laboratory Animal Medicine together with the Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology offers PhD or postdoctoral training combined with residency training. The goal of VISTA (Veterinary Investigator in Scientific Training and Advancement) is to foster the development of a veterinarian as an independent academic investigator who will work side-by-side with basic scientists and clinicians to discover new sciences and develop novel therapeutics. The combination of clinical with basic scientific training is intended to provide a well-rounded exposure to both veterinary medicine and laboratory-based research, allowing the broad perspective important for pursuing basic research with animal experience and clinical implications. Awardees of this program fulfill the requirements for board certification in laboratory animal medicine as well as research training to complete a PhD or postdoctoral fellowship.

The program accepts outstanding veterinarians (with a DVM or DVM/PhD degree from an accredited institution) seeking advanced research training. The program is flexible and designed to meet the needs and interests of each individual. The laboratory experience is completed under the close supervision of a mentor. Awardees select their mentors from the wide range of choices in the Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology.

Admission
All interested applicants are required to submit a copy of curriculum vitae, a Statement of Purpose, official transcripts, and three letters of recommendation. The applications are evaluated by an Admission Committee, and qualified applicants are invited for an interview. The chair of the Admission Committee is Marcelo A. Couto, D.V.M., Ph.D., and the members are Gregory Lawson, D.V.M., Ph.D., Harvey Herschman, Ph.D., and Hong Wu, M.D., Ph.D.