The Master of Laboratory Investigation (MLI) program is a three to five-year program offered by the School of Medicine for Vanderbilt University or Medical Center staff members. Generally MLI students are full-time staff members who enroll part-time in the program, but other enrollment/work ratios may be accommodated with prior approval of the Dean.
The mission of the Master of Laboratory Investigation program is to enhance the academic, scientific, and technical expertise of research personnel who will continue to work in an academic research environment; to foster their professional growth; and to improve the career potentials of our brightest and most qualified young researchers who may not wish to or are uncertain about pursuing a Ph.D. By offering students graduate courses, hands-on technique modules, and opportunities for independent research, the program curriculum aims to advance the research goals of the Vanderbilt University and Vanderbilt University Medical Center research communities.
Applicants must have a B.S. or B.A. degree from an accredited institution, with a GPA of 2.5; have at least six months of residency in a research lab at Vanderbilt University or Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC); and be nominated with a strong letter of support from the faculty mentor in whose lab they work.