Job Description
Cornell University offers a fully funded Combined DVM-PhD program through its College of Veterinary Medicine, designed to train future leaders in veterinary medicine and biomedical research. This rigorous program integrates clinical veterinary education with advanced research training, culminating in both Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees.
Program Structure
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Duration: Typically completed in 7–8 years.
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Sequence: Students begin with DVM coursework, interspersed with research rotations, and then transition into full-time PhD research before returning to complete clinical training.
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Research Rotations: Three laboratory rotations are required, starting with the Veterinary Investigator Program (VIP) during the summer before the first year.
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Mentorship: Students select a thesis advisor from the Biomedical & Biological Sciences (BBS) Graduate Field before entering the second year of the DVM program.
Financial Support
Cornell provides comprehensive financial support throughout the duration of the Combined DVM-PhD program:
PhD Phase
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Tuition: Full graduate tuition is covered.
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Stipend: Annual stipend ranging from $61,008 to $74,088, depending on experience and funding source.
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Health Insurance: Fully subsidized through Cornell’s Student Health Plan (SHP).
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Funding Source: Support is provided by the student’s faculty research mentor.
DVM Phase
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Tuition: A tuition loan is provided by the College of Veterinary Medicine, which is forgiven upon successful completion of both the DVM and PhD degrees.
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Stipend: Summer stipends are available during research rotations.
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Health Insurance: Coverage is provided throughout the DVM training period.
Students are encouraged to apply for external funding opportunities, such as NIH or USDA fellowships. Cornell offers a $2,000 merit award to students who secure eligible external fellowships.
Admissions
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Eligibility: Applicants must be entering Year 1 or 2 of the DVM program at Cornell.
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Application Components:
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VMCAS application with an additional section detailing research experience.
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Three letters of recommendation from research mentors or individuals familiar with the applicant’s research activities.
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Personal statement outlining research interests and career goals.
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