Program Overview

Introduction to the Translational Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. Program

The Translational Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. program offers an innovative and interdisciplinary training experience designed to position graduates to contribute to the improvement of human health through various biomedical science-related careers. This program focuses on providing students with a comprehensive understanding of how to take discoveries from the "bench to the bedside."

Program Overview

• The program includes a signature, interdisciplinary curriculum with a focus on professional development.
• Students receive mentorship from world-class researchers and distinguished faculty.
• Hands-on participation in cutting-edge biomedical research is a key component.
• State-of-the-art research facilities are available for student use.
• The program offers a vibrant campus life in downtown Atlanta.

Research Areas of Focus

• Life-threatening Infectious Diseases (COVID, STDs, Ebola, Flu, RSV, Measles, Pneumonia)
• Inflammatory Diseases (IBD, otitis media, autoimmune)
• Therapeutics (Novel COVID-19 antiviral drugs)
• Vaccines (Universal vaccines for coronavirus, Flu, STD)
• Microbiome
• Translational Immunology and Immunotherapy
• Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders

Program Highlights

Laboratory Research

After admission, all doctoral students complete 2-3 laboratory rotations designed to match the student to a faculty advisor and lab for the duration of their study. Matches are based on the student's research interests, the faculty member's current projects, and available space.

Distinguished Faculty

The accomplished faculty in the Institute for Biomedical Sciences are leading pioneering biomedical research projects, receiving prestigious federal grant awards, and mentoring the next generation of biomedical scientists and professionals.

Professional Development

In addition to strong technical knowledge, industry employers seek graduates with strong, transferable skills. The Ph.D. program offers a unique curriculum that includes opportunities to develop oral and written communication skills, project management skills, and creative problem-solving skills.

Potential Career Paths

• Clinical biochemistry/immunology/microbiology
• Medical doctor
  urse/physiotherapist
• Patent attorney
• Regulatory affairs/technology transfer
• Research and development (industry/academia)
• Research management and administration
• Science communication/journalism/publishing
• Scientific sales and marketing
• Specialist (ecologist, pollution control, bioinformatician)
• Teaching (school/college/university)
• Technical (quality control, research technician)

Earnings Potential

• The median annual salary for a postdoctoral fellow is $64,863.
• The median annual salary for a medical science liaison is $111,280.
• The median annual salary for a biotechnology research scientist is $105,300.

Program Details

• Admissions Requirements
• Curriculum
• Tuition
• Goals & Outcomes

Admission Requirements

A conferred bachelor's degree is the only requirement for applicants interested in applying for the doctoral program.

Evaluation of Application

The admissions committee reviews each candidate's entire application and weighs each piece equally, which is called a holistic review. They do not eliminate applicants based solely on test scores or GPA.

Minimum GPA and TOEFL/IELTS Score

Since each application undergoes a holistic review, there are no required minimums for GPA or TOEFL/IELTS scores.

Application Materials

• Online Graduate Application
• $50.00 non-refundable application fee
• Transcripts from each college and/or university attended
• Three letters of recommendation
• A resume or curriculum vitae
• Personal Statement
• Writing Sample
• English Proficiency scores, if applicable

Curriculum

The Ph.D. core curriculum will provide students with a fundamental knowledge of cutting-edge biomedical science combined with an understanding of how to practically apply this knowledge to research and the business world. The program requires a minimum of 110 credit hours, usually completed over 4-5 years.

Sample Degree Completion

Year 1

• Begin required coursework
• Laboratory rotations
• Selection of lab for dissertation research

Year 2

• Complete required coursework
• Prepare for comprehensive qualifying exams

Year 3

• Complete comprehensive qualifying exams
• Admission to doctoral candidacy
• Selection of dissertation advisory committee
• Approval of dissertation proposal

Year 4+

• Ongoing conferences, poster presentations, seminars, journal clubs, etc.
• Completion of dissertation research
• Final dissertation defense

Funding Your Graduate Education

All accepted doctoral students are guaranteed funding in the form of a Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) appointment, which includes a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend.

Cost Calculator

A cost calculator is available to help estimate the costs associated with attending the university.

Conclusion

The Translational Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. program at Georgia State University is designed to educate a new cadre of biomedical scientists who will be ideally trained to enter the biomedical research and health professions workforce. With its unique educational experience, strong focus on multidisciplinary training, and professional development, graduates of this program will be poised to become societal leaders who contribute to the cutting-edge knowledge base and fuel a growing and rapidly evolving economy.