During the first year, students with different backgrounds (physics, computer science, chemistry among others) are required to attend biology courses, while students with a biology background will be trained in disciplines such as statistics or bio-informatics. In addition, students participate in a Journal Club in which they learn to critically evaluate original research articles. In the second and third years, graduate students present their research progress to other students and faculty. The Graduate Student Seminars are an opportunity to gain communication skills and to learn about ongoing research of other students and research laboratories. Professors from outside the institution are invited for monthly seminars and symposia. These are opportunities to meet visiting scientists who are leaders in their fields and to learn of their latest findings.