This policy governs laboratory transfers for PhD students in good standing within the Biological Sciences Division (BSD) who wish to change research groups while remaining in the same graduate program. It ensures laboratory transfers are conducted with appropriate oversight while maintaining the student's support and academic momentum.
Transfer Process and Approvals
A student may transfer to a different laboratory within their graduate program with the consent of program chair and approval from the BSD Associate Dean of Education, Graduate Education. This process requires consultation with both the releasing and receiving faculty advisors. The Dean of Students Office (DOS) must be notified of all transfer proceedings and decisions to maintain accurate student records.
Academic Considerations
To minimize impact on time to degree, transfers should occur early in the research phase. Within two quarters of transferring, students must convene a new or modified thesis committee to review and approve any changes to their research direction or their new dissertation.
Special Circumstances
The Division recognizes that unexpected situations may arise, such as a thesis advisor becoming unavailable. In these cases, special consideration(s) will be given to support the student's continued progress. All transfers remain subject to the policies of both the graduate program and the BSD.