Program Overview

Introduction to the Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics PhD Program

The Division of Pharmacoengineering and Molecular Pharmaceutics (DPMP) PhD program is designed to immerse students in cutting-edge research across chemistry, engineering, and biology to develop innovative methods of drug delivery for next-generation therapies. This program is tailored to produce graduates who can launch into careers in industry or academia.

Program Structure

• Coursework: Students learn didactic coursework from world-renowned experts in drug delivery, gaining cross-disciplinary expertise in nanomedicine, physical pharmacy, advanced drug delivery systems, pharmacokinetics, and drug metabolism. The curriculum can be tailored with specialty electives fine-tuned to the student's research interests.
• Seminar: The program includes a weekly multidisciplinary seminar where students build scholarly community, improve communication skills, and deepen academic understanding. This involves sharing updates on research progress, discussing the latest publications, and interacting with faculty leaders and invited experts.
• Thesis Research: Students engage in independent, original research that contributes new knowledge or insights to the field. This involves exploring research interests through lab rotations before selecting a faculty mentor and dissertation lab. Students work closely with faculty mentors to complete a written dissertation and publicly defend their research, developing transferable skills to prepare for careers in academia, industry, and government.

Research Strengths

The DPMP PhD program has research strengths in designing and testing advanced drug delivery systems, such as lipid nanoparticles, biomaterials, and viral vectors, to overcome biological barriers, improve targeting, and understand drug behavior in the body.

Therapeutic Areas

The program focuses on several therapeutic areas, including:

• Cancer
• Infectious Disease
• Autoimmune Disorders
• Neurologic Disorders
• Cardiovascular Disease
• Diabetes
• Drug Toxicity

Career Opportunities

DPMP PhD graduates are in high demand across the pharmaceutical industry and academia. Alumni secure impactful roles in pharmacoengineering and biopharmaceutics, driving innovation and shaping the future of drug delivery around the world.

Facilities

The program utilizes state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Marsico Hall: A nine-story research facility featuring state-of-the-art imaging technologies.
• Genetic Medicine Building: A seven-story interdisciplinary genetics and pharmaceutical science research facility.

Faculty and Staff

The program is led by scientists who are leading the way in drug delivery. The faculty and staff are dedicated to mentoring and guiding students through their academic and research journey.

Life as a Tar Heel

The program offers a unique experience, with opportunities to explore Chapel Hill and Asheville, and to connect with the School of Pharmacy community through various social media platforms.