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Departmental Retreat Every year the entire department takes an overnight 'retreat' to a nearby rural conference center. The retreat consists of an equal mix of scientific discussions and recreation that is designed to foster collaborations and enhance working relationships. Students are encouraged to present their research either as a talk or as a poster at the retreat, where they find a friendly and enthusiastic audience. The weekly departmental seminar features speakers presenting research findings in diverse areas of biochemistry and molecular biology. The majority of these speakers come from universities and institutions outside the local area. The series provides a means for learning about other areas of research, and often provides unexpected opportunities to develop research collaborations. Students have input into the choice of speakers by suggesting names to a faculty member. There are a multiple opportunities for students to interact with the invited speakers through meetings, lunches, and receptions following the seminars. Robert E. Olson Lectureship The annual Olson Lecture was initiated to honor Dr. Robert Olson, chairman of the department from 1965 to 1984 and president of the American Institute of Nutrition. The honorary speakers in this series are chosen from the most outstanding scientists of today. Past speakers include Edward Rubin, Shirley Tilghman, Charles Esmon, Randy Schekman, Robert Schimke, Geoff Rosenfeld, Alan Lambowitz and Philip Beachy |