Program Overview
The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics PhD program offers comprehensive training in the field, equipping students with foundational knowledge in genetics, genomics, and human biology. Students participate in research rotations, attend various seminars and workshops, and have access to advanced research laboratories and facilities. The program aims to train future leaders in the field of genetics and genomics, preparing graduates for careers in academia, medicine, industry, and other professional sectors.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Johns Hopkins Human Genetics Training Program offers a PhD in Human Genetics and Genomics. It provides comprehensive training in all aspects of human genetics and genomics relevant to human biology, health, and disease. The program aims to educate highly motivated and capable students with the knowledge and experimental tools necessary to address critical questions at the intersection of genetics and medicine. The program's objectives are:
- To provide a strong foundation in basic science through rigorous graduate education in genetics, genomics, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, and biostatistics.
- To equip students with a core of medically-related courses to provide knowledge of human biology in health and disease.
- To prepare students to become leaders in delivering the promise of genetics to human health. The program is also offered as training for medical students in the combined MD/PhD program. Students apply to the combined program during their MD application process.
Outline:
The program includes the following required core courses:
- Advanced Topics in Human Genetics: 1.5 credits
- Evolving Concepts of the Gene: 5 credits
- Molecular Biology and Genomics: 1.5 credits
- Cell Structure and Dynamics: 1.5 credits
- Computational Bootcamp: 2 credits
- Pathways and Regulation: 2 credits
- Genomic Technologies: 1.5 credits
- Rigor and Reproducibility in Research: 1 credit
- Systems, Genes and Mechanisms of Disease: 3 credits
- Understanding Genetic Disease: 0.5 credits In addition to the core courses, students must take a minimum of four electives, one of which must provide computational/statistical training. Numerous elective courses are available and are listed under sponsoring departments. The program also requires participation in the "OPTIONS" Career Curriculum offered by the Professional Development and Career Office. OPTIONS is designed to provide trainees with career building skills, career exploration opportunities, and professional development training. Students participate in a two-week course in July at the Jackson Labs in Bar Harbor, Maine entitled "Human and Mammalian Genetics and Genomics: The McKusick Short Course." This course covers a wide range of topics from basic principles to the latest developments in mammalian genetics.
Assessment:
The program requires students to complete three research rotations before deciding on their thesis lab. They must also participate in the Responsible Conduct of Research sessions offered by the Biomedical Program. Starting in year 3, students must attend at least two Research Integrity Colloquium lectures per year. Trainees participate in weekly journal clubs, department seminars, monthly Science & Pizza presentations, and workshops given twice a year on diversity, identity, and culture. At the end of the second year, trainees take their Doctoral Board Oral Examination. Annual thesis committee meetings must be held following successful completion of this exam.
Teaching:
The program's faculty consists of researchers from various departments across Johns Hopkins University. The program offers a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and research rotations.
Careers:
Graduates from the Human Genetics program pursue careers in academia, medicine, industry, teaching, government, law, and the private sector.
Other:
- The program is supported by a training grant from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. These fellowships cover tuition, health care insurance, and a stipend during year one.
- Research laboratories are well equipped to carry out sophisticated research in all areas of genetics.
- The proximity to the renowned clinical facilities of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, including the Department of Genetic Medicine and Oncology Center, provides faculty and students with access to a wealth of material for study.
- Computer and library facilities are excellent.
- Laboratories involved in the Human Genetics Program span Johns Hopkins University, resulting in extensive supporting facilities.
- Students are encouraged to apply for fellowships from outside sources before entering the program.
- The average time for program completion is 5.3 years.
