The PhD Plus - Foundations Series for Life Sciences is best suited for first-year graduate students in biomedical and life sciences disciplines. However, all graduate students are invited to attend these interactive sessions. This series provides an opportunity to develop interdisciplinary peer communities and to gain fundamental skills for academic, career, and personal success, and guides students to make the most of their graduate school experience.
Upon successful completion (80%, or 4 out of 5 sessions) of this series, graduate students are eligible to earn a digital badge, issued by the PhD Plus Program through Credly, that demonstrates proof of completion of the program.
Session Description
Graduate students often balance multiple responsibilities, including coursework, research, teaching, professional development, and personal commitments. This session introduces practical project management principles and strategies that can help students prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, improve collaboration, and adapt to changing demands. By applying these skills, participants can build greater efficiency, organization, and resilience throughout their graduate school experience.
Register here for the summer Foundation Series
Session Dates and Topics:
- Jul. 9 | Unpacking the "Hidden Curriculum” & Setting Your Goals
- Jul. 16 | Your Financial Orientation to Graduate School (co-hosted with Emily Roberts, owner of Personal Finance for PhDs).
- Bonus Session on Resources for New Graduate Students, from 4:30-4:50 pm led by UVA Finance
- Jul. 23 | Managing Projects
- Jul. 30 | Managing Time
- Aug. 6 | Building Resilience and Leveraging Strengths
2026 PhD Plus - Summer Foundations for Life Science Flyer
