Supervisory Committee
The graduate supervisory committee assumes the responsibility for approving the student’s program, advising dissertation research, and conducting required examinations. The committee consists of the major advisor who serves as chair and holds a tenure-track faculty position in one of the three departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry/Biochemistry, and Physics or is an affiliate faculty member endorsed to chair supervisory committees in the program, plus at least two tenure-track faculty that represent at least one of the other departments, but no more than five members in total. A fourth or fifth committee member may include an otherwise qualified individual (e.g., Ph.D., D.V.M., M.D.) from outside of these three departments, but their expertise relevant to the student’s dissertation project must be documented prior to committee appointment, and a formal request made and approved by the program. All members of the supervisory committee must have graduate faculty status, as appointed by the Graduate College.
Selection of the supervisory committee typically begins with the graduate student and major advisor agreeing on a potential committee membership list based on the student’s dissertation project. The student then fills out an Appointment of Supervisory Committee and submits for approval. This request should be submitted by the beginning of the second year of study. The graduate dean can either appoint the recommended committee or solicit an alternative recommendation from the program. Changes in membership of the committee can be made after its appointment, but only in accordance with program policies and with the approval of the Graduate College.
Students will typically interact with members of the Supervisory Committee on a frequent basis, either individually or informally in classes or working on research. Students should also organize a formal meeting with the entire Supervisory Committee on an annual basis to present a progress report, receive feedback, and discuss future research plans. It is the student’s responsibility to schedule these annual meetings.