The VI4 Graduate Student Exchange Program provides graduate students in microbiology and immunology an opportunity to spend time immersed in a lab at a partner institution across the US. These “mini-sabbaticals” allow students to network, gain experience in areas that compliment or expand their thesis, and gather insights from faculty and trainees outside of their home institutions. Each “mini-sabbatical” is expected to last approximately 4 weeks, and student travel expenses and stipends are fully covered.
Interested graduate students from partner programs are invited to apply. Applications are reviewed annually before the beginning of the program year, with travel expected during the summer months. Approximately one student per institution will be selected each year.
Applications will open early 2026.
List of Participating Schools:
- Vanderbilt University/VUMC
- University of California San Diego
- University of Alabama Birmingham
- University of Pennsylvania
- Duke University
- University of Utah
FAQs
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We invite applicants to indicate their preferred site. However, due to the complexity of the program which includes multiple sponsoring institutions, we cannot guarantee the placement will be made at the student’s preferred site.
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Yes, your home institution will continue to provide your stipend and benefits as usual while you are away participating in the exchange program.
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You will work with your home institution, with guidance from your host institution, to identify a lodging option that is cost-effective, safe, and convenient to campus.
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Your home institution will cover travel, lodging, and your regular pay and benefits during the program. Your host lab will cover the cost of necessary consumables, technology, etc. during the program.
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The student’s home institution will cover travel to Nashville and lodging for the stay (1-2 nights).
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Host labs will identify a mentor for the exchange student prior to the start of the program. This will typically be a senior graduate student or postdoctoral fellow in the host lab. Students will have a “home base” in that lab, and they will also provide the opportunity for the student to meet with other labs and individuals from their institution during the program. The visiting student is expected to give a seminar at the hosting site during their visit. Networking and activities to familiarize the student with the local area are also encouraged!
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Activities may include (but are not limited to) attending lab meetings, participating in a research project with the host lab, networking, and presenting a seminar at the conclusion of the program. Additionally, participants will be invited to attend the VI4 Annual Research Symposium the April following their program to network and give a poster presentation of their experience.