Welcome to Biomedical Sciences

James Dias Ph.D, Chair

The primary emphasis of the BMS Graduate Program is the training of research scientists for careers in research, teaching and/or public health in academia, government or the private sector. The BMS Graduate Program provides the opportunity to obtain a M.S. or a Ph.D. in the Biomedical Sciences as well as an MPH with a concentration in the Biomedical Sciences.

The graduate program in Biomedical Sciences is individualized. Initially, students of all tracks must complete a set of core requirements that lays the foundation for further study. All students take integrated courses in Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology in their first year. In the second year all students take Introduction to Biomedical Sciences, an introduction to fundamental principles of the biomedical sciences focusing on the molecular basis of human disease. Each student is also required to take a course on the Responsible Conduct of Scientific Research. It is expected that students will select a track by the end of the first year. Further courses are selected with the assistance of faculty advisors, in accordance with the requirements of the chosen track and taking into account the background and interests of the individual student. Each semester, students participate in a journal club to gain expertise in analyzing the current literature in their field.

In addition to formal course work, the emphasis is on intensive laboratory research that culminates in successful completion of a master's thesis or doctoral dissertation. Research at the bench commences in the first year with laboratory rotations. Ph.D. and DrPH students choose three lab rotations, which they take over the course of the first year. Masters students complete two rotations. These rotations allow the student to obtain research experience and to make an informed choice in selection of a mentor for their graduate research. The "Breakfast Club", the Annual Departmental Retreat and the Annual Student Poster Day provide excellent opportunities for students to present their research and obtain helpful suggestions from the faculty, postdoctoral fellows and their fellow students. Additionally, many senior students present their work at national scientific meetings.