Visual Science Training Program

The Visual Science Training Program at UCI supports research training in basic science disciplines relevant to multiple aspects of vision research, including ophthalmology, physiology, pharmacology, structural biology, imaging and immunology. The global objective of the VSTP is to provide predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees with the knowledge and research skills to begin independent investigative and teaching careers in the visual sciences. The program also encourages interdisciplinary collaborative and translational research, to enable our trainees become skilled at functioning in an interactive research environment. There is a robust visual science community in Irvine with ongoing research related to: anterior segment and ocular surface, vision, visual processing, retinal disease, stem cells and imaging, and lens.

This program provides two years of stipend and tuition support to trainees who are selected on a competitive basis. Travel and enrichment funds are also available to trainees.

Trainees enroll in core courses and laboratory rotations during their first year in the umbrella program. Trainees are then eligible for program support as second and third year Ph.D. students if they choose a training faculty member as their research mentor.

Required courses/workshops

• Courses (PHYSIO 272)
• One professional development courses
• Monthly forum
• Monthly journal club
• Annual retreat
• Fellowship workshop and mock study session

Optional short-term internships are available to all trainees in an in-house contract laboratory facility.

Trainees who complete the VSTP will achieve the following outcomes:

• Understand scientific principles and the scientific method.
• Understand fundamental concepts in vision sciences, including pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical therapeutics, and drug discovery/development.
• In a rigorous and reproducible manner, be able to design, perform, and critique hypothesis-driven research that applies concepts in the pharmacological sciences (e.g., pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, medicinal chemistry principles, drug design and discovery) using advanced decision-making and creative problem-solving skills.
• Be able to work effectively and collegially in collaborative and team science projects.
• Be able to identify and have a thorough understanding of concepts related to the responsible conduct of research.
• Be able to effectively communicate scientific concepts, interpret data from the literature, accurately and objectively report new findings, and propose hypotheses to a broad range of audiences.
• Be comfortable exploring different career paths, applying skills in a variety of careers, stepping up to lead, and conducting themselves with maturity and integrity in all professional endeavors.
• EXPERIENCE IN scientific communication, such as presentation of scientific research results, preparation of research manuscripts, 

Career Outcomes

Upon successful completion of their degree and VSTP requirements, Visual Science Training Program alumni, transition into careers in the vision research workforce, in a wide range of capacities.  Their careers span many areas and sectors, such as academia, consulting, healthcare, law, and science communication.