Independent research is the core aspect of the program. We attempt to develop students as true ‘investigators' in immunology by fostering a close working relationship between the student and his or her research advisor.

A  research faculty advisor, in whose laboratory the student will complete the thesis research, is chosen at the end of the first year of study. 

There are also other faculty advisors the students can get input from and the immunology community at the University of Virginia is a close-knit one, with wonderful interaction between students, faculty and also post-doctoral fellows in the laboratories of the various Immunology Training Program mentors.