UC San Diego's graduate program in Biological Sciences, in association with the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, offers broad training in an extraordinary setting for highly motivated students interested in training with outstanding faculty. Faculty research interests include: Biochemistry, Biophysics, Bioinformatics, Cancer Biology, Cell Biology, Conservation Biology, Developmental Biology, Ecology, Behavior and Evolution, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Neurobiology, Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Systems Biology, Quantitative Biology, Signal Transduction, and Virology. The core curriculum focuses on development of core competencies and transferable skills in critical thinking, communication, and leadership. The first year prepares students for the core of the PhD program, the development of intellectual independence and creativity through original thesis research, guided by a thesis advisor and committee. Students have a high degree of flexibility in choice of thesis advisor through the rotation program. Throughout the program, there is strong emphasis on engaged mentoring through regular committee meetings, annual reports and Individual Development Plans.