Marco (he/him) believes that science and education can change the world, and he is now starting his PhD in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology at Duke University, North Carolina. He is affiliated with the Duke School of Medicine, an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment with a benchmark of scientific discoveries to improve human health. Marco majored in Food Engineering at the Federal University of Viçosa, Brazil, attended the University of Lorraine, France, as an exchange student in Biotechnology, and earned an MSc in Genetics and Molecular Biology from the State University of Campinas, Brazil. His research and teaching interests include biochemistry, bioinformatics, cell biology, and microbiology. Marco has received several national and international merit scholarships, authored four research papers, and collaborated on six other articles and two book chapters. He has also served in various research assistant roles, including undergraduate research assistant, research assistant, and teaching assistant positions. You can follow Marco on Twitter: @MarcoTPGontijo

The Week Before My Viva

Sue Lynn Mah shares her experience preparing for and passing her PhD viva in her article. In the week leading up to the big day, she re-read her thesis, had a mock viva with her supervisor, practiced explaining her work to people outside of her field, and printed out a physical copy of her thesis. Her tips for viva success include picking out your outfit in advance and practicing your elevator pitch.

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From Stay-at-Home Mom to Doctorate Student at 50

Not all doctoral degrees are earned in your 30s and 40s. While many pursue doctoral degrees during those years to attain professional gains and financial security, this article shows how enrolling in a PhD program in your 50s can bring a fresh lens due to entering a new season of life and finally having a window of opportunity to step outside your comfort zone.

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