TIBBS

Training Initiatives in Biomedical and Biological Sciences (TIBBS)

Since 2006, UNC-CH has been providing career exploration and professional development resources to graduate students with the aim of preparing graduates for a satisfying career. In 2014 UNC was one of only 7 institutions awarded a 5-year, $1.8 million grant from the NIH to expand our career development offerings. We have used this funding to provide students with immersive training opportunities in careers other than traditional academic research. That’s why we call it the Immersion Program to Advance Career Training, or ImPACT.

TIBBS and ImPACT help students:

• Prepare for the next steps after graduation: TIBBS provides pre-doctoral fellowship writing workshops for early and mid-stage graduate students and resources such as the annual Postdoc Boot Camp to help you land the right post-doctoral position for you.
• Develop non-bench skills: TIBBS organizes professional development workshops on a variety of subjects, including scientific writing, teaching, dissertation writing, presentation skills, and more.
• Learn about careers: Career awareness events introduce you to PhD scientists in academic and non-academic career paths, We will help you create an Individual Development Plan, and then you can join a Career Cohort of other students and postdocs with similar career interests.
• Experience a career you are considering: Through ImPACT you can be paired with a PhD scientist at a local company or organization in the career you are considering.  Short-term job shadowing opportunities and longer-term paid externships are available in your third year and beyond.
• Get one-on-one career coaching: Make an appointment with Beka or Patrick if you need help choosing a career path or need help with CVs, resumes, or cover letters. We’ve helped hundreds of students just like you.
• Expand your teaching expertise: Students interested in a teaching-intensive career can complete the Graduate Certificate in College Science Teaching. This program complements research training with specific instruction in pedagogy and more extensive in-class teaching experience.
• Explore translational medicine: The UNC research community includes a top medical center and several other health affairs schools. Students interested in bridging the gap between the bench and the bedside can complete the Certificate Program in Translational Medicine which provides the unique opportunity to work directly with a clinical co-mentor as well as their PI.
• Socialize with other graduate students: TIBBS monthly socials give graduate students the opportunity to get to know one another and get involved with the UNC community. Take a quick break from the lab and join us for sushi, popsicles, or other treats.

For more information, please visit tibbs.unc.edu and follow TIBBS on Facebook and Twitter!