Program Overview

PhD in Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology

The PhD in Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology is a doctoral program that offers students the opportunity to make discoveries at the frontiers of molecular genetics and cell biology.

Why Study Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology?

The opportunities in the fields of genetics and molecular biology are remarkable, with a wealth of genetic information and the potential to use this information for developing novel medical therapies and diagnostic procedures. As a molecular genetics and cell biology researcher, students will study the genetics of human disease, cancer cell biology and genetics, developmental biology, and stem cells in disease and development.

Why Study Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology at UNMC?

UNMC's intensive Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology doctoral program is an innovative interdisciplinary community of scientists committed to training the next generation of scientists. The program will train students to conduct rigorous and interdisciplinary research focused on understanding the cellular, molecular, and genetic basis of normal development as well as disease pathogenesis.

Program Snapshot

• Course Load: Full-time
• Duration: 5 Years
• Location: Omaha
• Start Date: Spring, Summer, Fall

Multidisciplinary Approach

Students will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of research disciplines and approaches. More than 70 faculty members from 15 colleges, departments, and/or institutes participate in Molecular Genetics & Cell Biology, including:

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Cellular and Integrative Physiology
• College of Dentistry
• College of Pharmacy
• College of Public Health
• Eppley Institute
• Genetics Cell Biology and Anatomy
• Internal Medicine
• Munroe-Meyer Institute
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
• Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology
• Pediatrics
• Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience
• Radiation Oncology and Surgery

Program Tracks

Research Track

Students will study the fundamentals of biomolecules, genetics and genomics, and receptors and cell signaling. Teaching and research presentation skills are also stressed. As part of three electives, students will choose either Tools and Algorithms in Bioinformatics or Modern Approaches in Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics.

Anatomy Teaching Track

The core curriculum includes Fundamentals in Genetics and Genomics, Molecular Cell Biology, Human Histology, Neuroanatomy Lab, Gross Anatomy Laboratory, and Teaching and Research Presentation Skills, as well as teaching practicums.

Careers and Outcomes

Graduates enter into a variety of careers in academia, industry, and government service. Students have obtained postdoctoral positions at highly ranked academic institutions. Job opportunities include:

• Biomedical scientist
• Academia
• Industry
• Government

Related Programs

Students interested in this program may wish to explore:

• PhD in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
• PhD in Bioinformatics & Systems Biology
• PhD in Cancer Research