Program Overview

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Introduction to the Biomedical Sciences Program

The Biomedical Sciences Program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center is an integrated, interdisciplinary, research-oriented graduate program. Students train in faculty laboratories at the UT Health Science Center, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, LeBonheur Children's Hospital, and the Veteran Affairs Medical Center, among others.

Research Tracks

The program offers seven research tracks:

• Cancer and Developmental Biology
• Genetics, Genomics, and Informatics
• Molecular and Translational Physiology
• Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry
• Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology
• Neuroscience
• Regenerative and Rehabilitation Sciences

Program Details

Cancer and Developmental Biology

The Cancer and Developmental Biology track reflects the complete continuum of cell development, from the regulation of normal cell division to the abnormal development of cancer. Research areas include animal models for tumorigenesis and development, tumor suppressor and oncogenic signaling pathways, angiogenesis, cell proliferation and cell death, differentiation, development, pathology, cancer stem cells/tumor-initiating cells, and novel therapeutic approaches.

Genetics, Genomics, and Informatics

The mission of the Department of Genetics, Genomics, and Informatics is to carry out high-impact research in genetics and related fields and to provide training in precision medicine and systems genetics. Faculty, staff, and students study interactions of DNA differences, the environment, and life history on disease risk, focusing on diseases ranging from Alzheimer's, autism, addiction, through to cancers, diabetes, and heart disease.

Molecular and Translational Physiology

Physiology explores functional relationships within cells, between cells and their environments to form tissues, between tissues to form organs, communications among organs to form body systems, and the mechanisms involved in coordinating and regulating the multiple systems needed to sustain viable organisms. Faculty members are involved in cutting-edge research on various topics, including cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry

Students entering the Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry (MIB) track receive state-of-the-art training designed to prepare them for a research-focused career in academia, industry, or governmental agencies. The goals of the MIB track and its faculty are to ensure students have the necessary skills to become independent scientists and to successfully compete at the next level of their career development.

Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology

The Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology (PhAST) track provides broad and cutting-edge training in Pharmacology from molecular mechanisms of drug action and disease to experimental therapeutics and drug discovery. The track is particularly focused on diseases associated with addiction, neurodegeneration, and brain-driven behaviors.

Neuroscience

The Neuroscience track provides broad research training in neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, neuroanatomy, molecular and cellular neuroscience, developmental neurobiology, and behavioral neuroscience. Basic and clinical neuroscience research at UTHSC and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital focuses on intracellular signaling pathways, neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission, sensory processing, retinal biology, neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, brain tumors, neurogenetics, and neural development, and mental and addictive disorders.

Regenerative and Rehabilitation Sciences

Research training in the health professions is necessary to provide needed university academicians who can advance the fields of rehabilitation and repair/regeneration of tissue after acute or chronic injuries. The Regenerative and Rehabilitation Sciences track offers an innovative opportunity for student training in research who can then pursue clinical and academic research careers within the health professions.

Admission Requirements

• A bachelor's degree with a grade-point average of at least 3.0 from an accredited college or university.
• Previous research experience.
• A personal statement.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• The GRE is optional.
• For students whose native language is not English, a score of at least 79 on the TOEFL or 6.5 on the IELTS is required.

Application Process

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to those submitted by December 1. The final application deadline is March 1. Students can apply online, and there are no fees for applying. The application requires personal information, academic history, supporting information, and program materials, including a CV or publications and a personal statement that includes research interests and faculty members whose research interests the applicant the most.

Curriculum and Degree Requirements

Each track has specific core and elective course requirements, as well as laboratory rotations and admission-to-candidacy exams. Students are expected to complete a minimum number of laboratory rotations to identify a research advisor and must select a research advisor based on mutual consent. The program culminates in a dissertation defense before a faculty committee.

Stipends and Scholarships

Currently, students receive a stipend of $30,900 in addition to payment of the health insurance premium. There are also graduate research assistantships available.

Conclusion

The Biomedical Sciences Program at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to graduate education in biomedical sciences. With its seven research tracks, the program provides students with the opportunity to explore a wide range of research areas and to develop the skills necessary to become independent scientists. The program's focus on flexibility, innovation, and academic excellence makes it an attractive option for students seeking a PhD in biomedical sciences.