The programs prepare candidates for a variety of careers in teaching and research both within and outside of academia.<br>Graduate students are actively involved in laboratory research, course work, and presentation of research seminars. Thus, they acquire autonomy in conducting research and in preparing publications.<br>The programs create a stimulating and challenging environment which will allow students to achieve excellence in research. Graduates of the programs must demonstrate research skills and credibility as professionals in their area of research.<br>The Department is a participating unit in the Bioinformatics collaborative program.<br>The driving force behind the MD/PhD program at the University of Ottawa was and remains to attract the small number of students with a high potential to grow into future leaders in the health sciences and allied fields. MD/PhD students exemplify the multi-disciplinary nature of the ongoing educational and scientific activities at our bilingual university. Our shared vision for the immediate and near future of the MD/PhD program at the University of Ottawa encompasses among others the following goals: